Can Agassiz Cory and Bearded Cory Live Together?

Possible with Caution

Keeping Agassiz Cory and Bearded Cory together is possible but requires caution, though some care is needed. Provide a spacious tank of at least 110 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

Agassiz Cory

Corydoras agassizii

Bearded Cory

Scleromystax barbatus

🐟Family Group
Agassiz Cory
Catfish
Bearded Cory
Catfish
Temperament
Agassiz Cory
Peaceful (0/10)
Bearded Cory
Peaceful (2/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Agassiz Cory
22–27°C
Bearded Cory
16–23°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Agassiz Cory
6–8
Bearded Cory
6–7.4
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Agassiz Cory
2–15
Bearded Cory
2–12
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Agassiz Cory
Freshwater Only
Bearded Cory
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Agassiz Cory
Moderate
Bearded Cory
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 110 L
Agassiz Cory
60 L
Bearded Cory
110 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Agassiz Cory
Bottom
Bearded Cory
Bottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Agassiz Cory
Digger (Disturbs Substrate)Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Bearded Cory
Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Agassiz Cory and Bearded Cory?

Compatibility is only part of the answer. Test both fish with your real tank size, current stock, and maintenance needs to see if you have enough space and a safe stocking level before you add them.

Agassiz Cory
Bearded Cory
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Behaviour & Temperament

Agassiz Cory is a peaceful species (0/10), while Bearded Cory is peaceful (2/10). This modest difference means Bearded Cory may occasionally assert dominance over Agassiz Cory.

Agassiz Cory and Bearded Cory both frequent the Bottom (Substrate) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 22°C and 23°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 22.5°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6 and 7.4. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 2–12 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Agassiz Cory and Bearded Cory together, plan for an aquarium of at least 110 litres with a minimum length of 90 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

Because this pairing requires extra vigilance, include plenty of hiding spots — caves, driftwood, and dense plant clusters — so the less dominant fish can retreat when needed.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Sand (Sifters). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with moderate (standard) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Agassiz Cory and Bearded Cory.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can Agassiz Cory and Bearded Cory live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 110 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Agassiz Cory and Bearded Cory need?

A minimum of 110 litres (tank length at least 90 cm) is recommended. This provides enough space for both species to establish their own areas and reduces the likelihood of territorial disputes.

What water temperature is best for Agassiz Cory and Bearded Cory together?

Keep the aquarium between 22°C and 23°C. A target of around 22.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Agassiz Cory or Bearded Cory aggressive?

Agassiz Cory is peaceful (0/10) and Bearded Cory is peaceful (2/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Agassiz Cory and Bearded Cory need?

Both species overlap in the 6–7.4 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.


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