Can Agassiz Cory and MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish) Live Together?

Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Agassiz Cory and MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish) are ideal tank mates. Both species share compatible water parameters and peaceful temperaments, making them well-suited for a community aquarium. They occupy different areas of the water column, which reduces competition for space. A minimum tank size of 80 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Agassiz Cory

Corydoras agassizii

MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)

Melanotaenia maccullochi

🐠Family Group
Agassiz Cory
Catfish
MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)
Rainbowfish
Temperament
Agassiz Cory
Peaceful (0/10)
MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)
Peaceful (2/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Agassiz Cory
22–27°C
MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)
20–30°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Agassiz Cory
6–8
MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)
5.5–8
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Agassiz Cory
2–15
MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)
5–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Agassiz Cory
Freshwater Only
MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Agassiz Cory
Moderate
MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 80 L
Agassiz Cory
60 L
MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)
80 L
Swimming Level
✓ Different zones
Agassiz Cory
Bottom
MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)
TopMiddle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Agassiz Cory
Digger (Disturbs Substrate)Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerJumper (Lid Required)Fry Predator
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Agassiz Cory and MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)?

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
MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish)
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

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

In terms of spatial distribution, Agassiz Cory prefers the Bottom (Substrate) zone, whereas MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish) occupies the Top (Surface) and Middle (Open Water) zones. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.

Worth noting: MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish) is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 22°C and 27°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 24.5°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6 and 8. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 5–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Agassiz Cory and MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 80 litres with a minimum length of 80 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

Providing a mix of open swimming space and sheltered areas with rocks, driftwood, or plants will keep both species comfortable and allow natural behaviour.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Sand (Sifters), Plants - Densely covered. 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 MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish).

Show 12 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Agassiz Cory and MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish) live together?

Yes. Agassiz Cory and MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish) are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Agassiz Cory and MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish) need?

A minimum of 80 litres (tank length at least 80 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 MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish) together?

Keep the aquarium between 22°C and 27°C. A target of around 24.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Agassiz Cory or MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish) aggressive?

Agassiz Cory is peaceful (0/10) and MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish) is peaceful (2/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Agassiz Cory and MacCulloch's Rainbowfish (Dwarf Rainbowfish) need?

Both species overlap in the 6–8 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.


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