Can Endler's Livebearer and Incolicana Corydoras Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated May 4, 2026
Possible with Caution

Keeping Endler's Livebearer and Incolicana Corydoras together is possible but requires caution, though some care is needed. Provide a spacious tank of at least 60 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

Endler's Livebearer

Poecilia wingei

Incolicana Corydoras

Corydoras incolicana

🐠Family Group
Endler's Livebearer
Livebearers
Incolicana Corydoras
Catfish
Temperament
Endler's Livebearer
Peaceful (1/10)
Incolicana Corydoras
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Endler's Livebearer
22–28°C
Incolicana Corydoras
22–26°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Endler's Livebearer
7–8.5
Incolicana Corydoras
5–7.2
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Endler's Livebearer
10–25
Incolicana Corydoras
2–12
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Endler's Livebearer
Freshwater Only
Incolicana Corydoras
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Endler's Livebearer
Moderate
Incolicana Corydoras
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 60 L
Endler's Livebearer
19 L
Incolicana Corydoras
60 L
Swimming Level
✓ Different zones
Endler's Livebearer
TopMiddle
Incolicana Corydoras
Bottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Endler's Livebearer
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerJumper (Lid Required)Fry Predator
Incolicana Corydoras
Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Endler's Livebearer and Incolicana 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.

Endler's Livebearer
Incolicana Corydoras
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Both Endler's Livebearer and Incolicana Corydoras are peaceful species with an aggression score of 1/10. Their matching temperaments mean neither fish is likely to dominate the other in a shared aquarium.

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

Worth noting: Endler's Livebearer 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 7 and 7.2. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 10–12 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Endler's Livebearer and Incolicana Corydoras 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.

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: Plants - Densely covered, Plants - Floating, Sand (Sifters), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), 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.

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. Endler's Livebearer and Incolicana 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 Endler's Livebearer and Incolicana Corydoras.

Show 19 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Endler's Livebearer and Incolicana Corydoras live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 60 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Endler's Livebearer and Incolicana Corydoras 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 Endler's Livebearer and Incolicana Corydoras 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 Endler's Livebearer or Incolicana Corydoras aggressive?

Endler's Livebearer is peaceful (1/10) and Incolicana Corydoras is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Endler's Livebearer and Incolicana Corydoras need?

Both species overlap in the 7–7.2 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
May 4, 2026
Last updated
May 4, 2026
Issues or corrections?
Contact the editorial team

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