Can Bandit Cory and Gold Barb Live Together?

Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Bandit Cory and Gold Barb are ideal tank mates. Both species share compatible water parameters and peaceful temperaments, making them well-suited for a community aquarium. A minimum tank size of 75 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Bandit Cory

Corydoras metae

Gold Barb

Barbodes semifasciolatus

🐠Family Group
Bandit Cory
Catfish
Gold Barb
Cyprinids
Temperament
Bandit Cory
Peaceful (1/10)
Gold Barb
Peaceful (2/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Bandit Cory
22–26°C
Gold Barb
16–24°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Bandit Cory
6–7.5
Gold Barb
6–8
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Bandit Cory
2–15
Gold Barb
2–20
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Bandit Cory
Freshwater Only
Gold Barb
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Bandit Cory
Moderate
Gold Barb
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 75 L
Bandit Cory
60 L
Gold Barb
75 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Bandit Cory
Bottom
Gold Barb
MiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Bandit Cory
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerDigger (Disturbs Substrate)
Gold Barb
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerFry Predator
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Bandit Cory and Gold Barb?

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.

Bandit Cory
Gold Barb
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Behaviour & Temperament

Bandit Cory is a peaceful species (1/10), while Gold Barb is peaceful (2/10). This modest difference means Gold Barb may occasionally assert dominance over Bandit Cory.

Bandit Cory and Gold Barb 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 24°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 23.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6 and 7.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 2–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Bandit Cory and Gold Barb together, plan for an aquarium of at least 75 litres with a minimum length of 60 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 Bandit Cory and Gold Barb.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can Bandit Cory and Gold Barb live together?

Yes. Bandit Cory and Gold Barb are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Bandit Cory and Gold Barb need?

A minimum of 75 litres (tank length at least 60 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 Bandit Cory and Gold Barb 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 Bandit Cory or Gold Barb aggressive?

Bandit Cory is peaceful (1/10) and Gold Barb is peaceful (2/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Bandit Cory and Gold Barb need?

Both species overlap in the 6–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.


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