Can Ghost Shrimp and Peppered Corydoras Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Ghost Shrimp and Peppered Corydoras are ideal tank mates. Both species share compatible water parameters and peaceful temperaments, making them well-suited for a community aquarium. A minimum tank size of 72 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Ghost Shrimp

Palaemonetes paludosus

Peppered Corydoras

Corydoras paleatus

🐠Family Group
Ghost Shrimp
Invertebrates
Peppered Corydoras
Catfish
Temperament
Ghost Shrimp
Peaceful (1/10)
Peppered Corydoras
Peaceful (0/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Ghost Shrimp
18–28°C
Peppered Corydoras
18–24°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Ghost Shrimp
6.5–8
Peppered Corydoras
6–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Ghost Shrimp
5–15
Peppered Corydoras
2–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Ghost Shrimp
Freshwater Only
Peppered Corydoras
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Ghost Shrimp
Low
Peppered Corydoras
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 72 L
Ghost Shrimp
19 L
Peppered Corydoras
60 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Ghost Shrimp
Bottom
Peppered Corydoras
Bottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Ghost Shrimp
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Peppered Corydoras
Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer

Behaviour & Temperament

Ghost Shrimp is a peaceful species (1/10), while Peppered Corydoras is peaceful (0/10). This modest difference means Ghost Shrimp may occasionally assert dominance over Peppered Corydoras.

Ghost Shrimp and Peppered 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.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 18°C and 24°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 21.0°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 5–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

Tank Setup

To house Ghost Shrimp and Peppered Corydoras together, plan for an aquarium of at least 72 litres with a minimum length of 60 cm. This accounts for the larger species' space requirements with an additional 20 % buffer to reduce territorial tension.

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: Plants - Densely covered, Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Sand (Sifters), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with low (still water) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

Find the right tank equipment

Browse tanks, décor, and equipment suited for this setup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Ghost Shrimp and Peppered Corydoras live together?

Yes. Ghost Shrimp and Peppered Corydoras are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Ghost Shrimp and Peppered Corydoras need?

A minimum of 72 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 Ghost Shrimp and Peppered Corydoras together?

Keep the aquarium between 18°C and 24°C. A target of around 21.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Ghost Shrimp or Peppered Corydoras aggressive?

Ghost Shrimp is peaceful (1/10) and Peppered Corydoras is peaceful (0/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Ghost Shrimp and Peppered Corydoras 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.


Related Comparisons