Can Blind Cave Tetra and Julii Corydoras (False Julii) Live Together?

🟡Possible with Caution

Keeping Blind Cave Tetra and Julii Corydoras (False Julii) together is possible but requires caution due to differing aggression levels. Provide a spacious tank of at least 132 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

Blind Cave Tetra

Astyanax mexicanus

Julii Corydoras (False Julii)

Corydoras trilineatus

🐠Family Group
Blind Cave Tetra
Characins
Julii Corydoras (False Julii)
Catfish
Temperament
Blind Cave Tetra
Mostly Peaceful (4/10)
Julii Corydoras (False Julii)
Peaceful (0/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Blind Cave Tetra
20–25°C
Julii Corydoras (False Julii)
22–26°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Blind Cave Tetra
6.5–8
Julii Corydoras (False Julii)
6–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Blind Cave Tetra
8–20
Julii Corydoras (False Julii)
2–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Blind Cave Tetra
Freshwater Only
Julii Corydoras (False Julii)
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Blind Cave Tetra
Moderate
Julii Corydoras (False Julii)
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 132 L
Blind Cave Tetra
110 L
Julii Corydoras (False Julii)
60 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Blind Cave Tetra
MiddleBottom
Julii Corydoras (False Julii)
Bottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Blind Cave Tetra
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerFin NipperAggressive Eater (Starves shy fish)
Julii Corydoras (False Julii)
Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer

Behaviour & Temperament

Blind Cave Tetra is a generally mild-mannered species (4/10), while Julii Corydoras (False Julii) is peaceful (0/10). This notable difference means Blind Cave Tetra may occasionally assert dominance over Julii Corydoras (False Julii).

Blind Cave Tetra and Julii Corydoras (False Julii) 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 25°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 23.5°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6.5 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. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

Tank Setup

To house Blind Cave Tetra and Julii Corydoras (False Julii) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 132 litres with a minimum length of 80 cm. This accounts for the larger species' space requirements with an additional 20 % buffer to reduce territorial tension.

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: Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Sand (Sifters). 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.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can Blind Cave Tetra and Julii Corydoras (False Julii) live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 132 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Blind Cave Tetra and Julii Corydoras (False Julii) need?

A minimum of 132 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 Blind Cave Tetra and Julii Corydoras (False Julii) together?

Keep the aquarium between 22°C and 25°C. A target of around 23.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Blind Cave Tetra or Julii Corydoras (False Julii) aggressive?

Blind Cave Tetra is generally mild-mannered (4/10) and Julii Corydoras (False Julii) is peaceful (0/10). The gap in aggression levels means the calmer fish may experience stress from the more assertive one.

What pH do Blind Cave Tetra and Julii Corydoras (False Julii) need?

Both species overlap in the 6.5–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

Will Blind Cave Tetra nip Julii Corydoras (False Julii)'s fins?

Blind Cave Tetra is a known fin nipper. If Julii Corydoras (False Julii) has long or flowing fins, there is a real risk of fin damage. Keeping Blind Cave Tetra in a larger group can help redirect nipping behaviour toward conspecifics.


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