Can otocincluses and pygmy corydoras live together in a 5-gallon tank?

No. Both species need at least 10 gallons for a school of 6. A 5-gallon tank is too small for either species to feel secure and thrive.

Will otocincluses eat pygmy corydoras food?

Otocincluses are herbivores that prefer algae and biofilm. Pygmy corydoras eat sinking omnivore pellets and frozen foods. They target different food sources and do not compete directly.

Do otocincluses and pygmy corydoras need to be in schools?

Yes. Otocincluses need at least 6 in a group. Pygmy corydoras need at least 8, with 10-12 being ideal. Both species feel more secure and eat more actively in larger groups.

Can Otocinclus Live With Pygmy Corydoras?

By Alex WalshLast reviewed Apr 18, 2026

Yes

Yes, otocincluses and pygmy corydoras share a tank well in 10 gallons or larger since both are peaceful bottom-dwelling schooling fish with identical care requirements.

Why

Otocincluses grow to 1.5-2 inches and pygmy corydoras grow to 1 inch, so neither can fit the other in their mouth.
Both species are peaceful bottom-dwellers that stay out of each other's way.
Both species tolerate temperatures of 72-79°F without stress.
Both species thrive in pH 6.4-7.4, which gives a clean overlap for shared water.
Otocincluses are herbivores that eat algae while pygmy corydoras are omnivores that eat sinking pellets, so they do not compete for food.

Minimum shared tank

10 gallons

Shared temperature range

72-79°F

What could go wrong

Otocincluses need an established tank with biofilm and algae growth. If the tank is too new, the otos will starve before the pygmy corydoras feel any effects.