Can Black Corydoras and Dusky Millions Fish Live Together?

Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Black Corydoras and Dusky Millions Fish 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

Dusky Millions Fish

Phalloceros caudimaculatus

🐠Family Group
Black Corydoras
Catfish
Dusky Millions Fish
Livebearers
Temperament
Black Corydoras
Peaceful (0/10)
Dusky Millions Fish
Peaceful (2/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Black Corydoras
22–26°C
Dusky Millions Fish
16–24°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Black Corydoras
6–7.5
Dusky Millions Fish
7–8
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Black Corydoras
2–15
Dusky Millions Fish
8–20
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Black Corydoras
Freshwater Only
Dusky Millions Fish
Brackish Tolerant
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Black Corydoras
Moderate
Dusky Millions Fish
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 60 L
Black Corydoras
60 L
Dusky Millions Fish
40 L
Swimming Level
✓ Different zones
Black Corydoras
Bottom
Dusky Millions Fish
TopMiddle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Black Corydoras
Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Dusky Millions Fish
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerPlant DestroyerFin Nipper
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Black Corydoras and Dusky Millions Fish?

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
Dusky Millions Fish
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Black Corydoras is a peaceful species (0/10), while Dusky Millions Fish is peaceful (2/10). This modest difference means Dusky Millions Fish may occasionally assert dominance over Black Corydoras.

In terms of spatial distribution, Black Corydoras prefers the Bottom (Substrate) zone, whereas Dusky Millions Fish 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.

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 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 8–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Black Corydoras and Dusky Millions Fish 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, Plants - Floating, Established Algae (Otocinclus). 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 Dusky Millions Fish.

Show 19 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Black Corydoras and Dusky Millions Fish live together?

Yes. Black Corydoras and Dusky Millions Fish 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 Dusky Millions Fish 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 Dusky Millions Fish 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 Black Corydoras or Dusky Millions Fish aggressive?

Black Corydoras is peaceful (0/10) and Dusky Millions Fish is peaceful (2/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Black Corydoras and Dusky Millions Fish need?

Both species overlap in the 7–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

Will Dusky Millions Fish nip Black Corydoras's fins?

Dusky Millions Fish is a known fin nipper. If Black Corydoras has long or flowing fins, there is a real risk of fin damage. Keeping Dusky Millions Fish in a larger group can help redirect nipping behaviour toward conspecifics.


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