Can Black Corydoras and Blackline Rasbora Live Together?

Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Black Corydoras and Blackline Rasbora 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 60 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Black Corydoras

Corydoras schultzei

Blackline Rasbora

Rasbora borapetensis

🐠Family Group
Black Corydoras
Catfish
Blackline Rasbora
Cyprinids
Temperament
Black Corydoras
Peaceful (0/10)
Blackline Rasbora
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Black Corydoras
22–26°C
Blackline Rasbora
22–26°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Black Corydoras
6–7.5
Blackline Rasbora
6–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Black Corydoras
2–15
Blackline Rasbora
2–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Black Corydoras
Freshwater Only
Blackline Rasbora
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Black Corydoras
Moderate
Blackline Rasbora
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 60 L
Black Corydoras
60 L
Blackline Rasbora
60 L
Swimming Level
✓ Different zones
Black Corydoras
Bottom
Blackline Rasbora
MiddleTop
🏷️Behavior Tags
Black Corydoras
Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Blackline Rasbora
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerJumper (Lid Required)Aggressive Eater (Starves shy fish)
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Black Corydoras and Blackline Rasbora?

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.

Black Corydoras
Blackline Rasbora
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Black Corydoras is a peaceful species (0/10), while Blackline Rasbora is peaceful (1/10). This modest difference means Blackline Rasbora may occasionally assert dominance over Black Corydoras.

In terms of spatial distribution, Black Corydoras prefers the Bottom (Substrate) zone, whereas Blackline Rasbora occupies the Middle (Open Water) and Top (Surface) zones. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.

Worth noting: Blackline Rasbora 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 26°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 24.0°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 Black Corydoras and Blackline Rasbora together, plan for an aquarium of at least 60 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, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Leaf Litter/Blackwater. 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 Black Corydoras and Blackline Rasbora.

Show 19 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Black Corydoras and Blackline Rasbora live together?

Yes. Black Corydoras and Blackline Rasbora are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Black Corydoras and Blackline Rasbora need?

A minimum of 60 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 Black Corydoras and Blackline Rasbora together?

Keep the aquarium between 22°C and 26°C. A target of around 24.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Black Corydoras or Blackline Rasbora aggressive?

Black Corydoras is peaceful (0/10) and Blackline Rasbora is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Black Corydoras and Blackline Rasbora 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.


Related Comparisons