Can Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Bronze Corydoras Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated April 28, 2026
Possible with Caution

Keeping Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Bronze Corydoras together is possible but requires caution due to differing aggression levels. Provide a spacious tank of at least 475 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

Blue Dolphin (Hap)

Cyrtocara moorii

Bronze Corydoras

Corydoras aeneus

🐠Family Group
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Cichlids - African
Bronze Corydoras
Catfish
Temperament
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Semi-Aggressive (5/10)
Bronze Corydoras
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
24–28°C
Bronze Corydoras
22–27°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
7.5–8.6
Bronze Corydoras
6–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
10–25
Bronze Corydoras
2–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Freshwater Only
Bronze Corydoras
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Moderate
Bronze Corydoras
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 475 L
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
475 L
Bronze Corydoras
60 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
MiddleBottom
Bronze Corydoras
Bottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Digger (Disturbs Substrate)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerAggressive to same species/look-alikes
Bronze Corydoras
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerDigger (Disturbs Substrate)
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Bronze Corydoras?

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.

Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Bronze Corydoras
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Blue Dolphin (Hap) is a moderately assertive species (5/10), while Bronze Corydoras is peaceful (1/10). This notable difference means Blue Dolphin (Hap) may occasionally assert dominance over Bronze Corydoras.

Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Bronze Corydoras 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.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 27°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.5°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7.5 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 10–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Bronze Corydoras together, plan for an aquarium of at least 475 litres with a minimum length of 150 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), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels). 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. Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Bronze Corydoras 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 Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Bronze Corydoras.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Bronze Corydoras live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 475 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Bronze Corydoras need?

A minimum of 475 litres (tank length at least 150 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 Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Bronze Corydoras together?

Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 27°C. A target of around 25.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Blue Dolphin (Hap) or Bronze Corydoras aggressive?

Blue Dolphin (Hap) is moderately assertive (5/10) and Bronze Corydoras is peaceful (1/10). The gap in aggression levels means the calmer fish may experience stress from the more assertive one.

What pH do Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Bronze Corydoras need?

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

Editorial Review

Guidarium Editorial Desk

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

Last reviewed
April 28, 2026
Last updated
April 28, 2026
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