Can Agassiz Cory and Tequila Splitfin Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated May 11, 2026
Possible with Caution

Keeping Agassiz Cory and Tequila Splitfin together is possible but requires caution due to differing aggression levels. Provide a spacious tank of at least 80 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

Tequila Splitfin

Zoogoneticus tequila

🐠Family Group
Agassiz Cory
Catfish
Tequila Splitfin
Livebearers
Temperament
Agassiz Cory
Peaceful (0/10)
Tequila Splitfin
Semi-Aggressive (5/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Agassiz Cory
22–27°C
Tequila Splitfin
20–24°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Agassiz Cory
6–8
Tequila Splitfin
7–8
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Agassiz Cory
2–15
Tequila Splitfin
6–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Agassiz Cory
Freshwater Only
Tequila Splitfin
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Agassiz Cory
Moderate
Tequila Splitfin
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 80 L
Agassiz Cory
60 L
Tequila Splitfin
80 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Agassiz Cory
Bottom
Tequila Splitfin
MiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Agassiz Cory
Digger (Disturbs Substrate)Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Tequila Splitfin
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerFin NipperFry Predator
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Agassiz Cory and Tequila Splitfin?

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
Tequila Splitfin
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Behaviour & Temperament

Agassiz Cory is a peaceful species (0/10), while Tequila Splitfin is moderately assertive (5/10). This notable difference means Tequila Splitfin may occasionally assert dominance over Agassiz Cory.

Agassiz Cory and Tequila Splitfin 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.

To improve the chances of a peaceful coexistence in this community tank: A larger aquarium with ample hiding spots can help diffuse aggression and give the less dominant fish space to retreat. Keep fin nippers in larger groups to distribute nipping behaviour among conspecifics rather than tank mates.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 22°C and 24°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 23.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7 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 6–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Agassiz Cory and Tequila Splitfin 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.

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), 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.

Why This Pairing Needs Extra Planning in Practice

This pairing usually fails when the tank is treated like a standard mixed community and the caution flags are ignored. Agassiz Cory and Tequila Splitfin need extra room, more cover, and closer observation during the first few weeks so small aggression, feeding, or territory issues do not snowball into a long-term problem.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Agassiz Cory and Tequila Splitfin.

Show 12 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Agassiz Cory and Tequila Splitfin live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 80 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Agassiz Cory and Tequila Splitfin 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 Tequila Splitfin together?

Keep the aquarium between 22°C and 24°C. A target of around 23.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Agassiz Cory or Tequila Splitfin aggressive?

Agassiz Cory is peaceful (0/10) and Tequila Splitfin is moderately assertive (5/10). The gap in aggression levels means the calmer fish may experience stress from the more assertive one.

What pH do Agassiz Cory and Tequila Splitfin need?

Both species overlap in the 7–8 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

Will Tequila Splitfin nip Agassiz Cory's fins?

Tequila Splitfin is a known fin nipper. If Agassiz Cory has long or flowing fins, there is a real risk of fin damage. Keeping Tequila Splitfin in a larger group can help redirect nipping behaviour toward conspecifics.

Editorial Review

Guidarium Editorial Desk

Reviewed against Guidarium care, stocking, and compatibility standards. Read the editorial policy.

Last reviewed
May 11, 2026
Last updated
May 11, 2026
Issues or corrections?
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