Can Giant Danio and Sterba's Corydoras Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Giant Danio and Sterba's Corydoras 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 132 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Giant Danio

Devario aequipinnatus

Sterba's Corydoras

Corydoras sterbai

🐠Family Group
Giant Danio
Cyprinids
Sterba's Corydoras
Catfish
Temperament
Giant Danio
Mostly Peaceful (3/10)
Sterba's Corydoras
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Giant Danio
22–28°C
Sterba's Corydoras
24–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Giant Danio
6–8
Sterba's Corydoras
6–7.6
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Giant Danio
5–20
Sterba's Corydoras
2–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Giant Danio
Freshwater Only
Sterba's Corydoras
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Giant Danio
High
Sterba's Corydoras
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 132 L
Giant Danio
110 L
Sterba's Corydoras
75 L
Swimming Level
✓ Different zones
Giant Danio
TopMiddle
Sterba's Corydoras
Bottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Giant Danio
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerJumper (Lid Required)Aggressive Eater (Starves shy fish)
Sterba's Corydoras
Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer

Behaviour & Temperament

Giant Danio is a generally mild-mannered species (3/10), while Sterba's Corydoras is peaceful (1/10). This modest difference means Giant Danio may occasionally assert dominance over Sterba's Corydoras.

In terms of spatial distribution, Giant Danio prefers the Top (Surface) and Middle (Open Water) zones, whereas Sterba's 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: Giant Danio is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 26.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6 and 7.6. 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 Giant Danio and Sterba's Corydoras together, plan for an aquarium of at least 132 litres with a minimum length of 90 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: Sand (Sifters). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with high (river/stream) 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 Giant Danio and Sterba's Corydoras live together?

Yes. Giant Danio and Sterba's Corydoras are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Giant Danio and Sterba's Corydoras need?

A minimum of 132 litres (tank length at least 90 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 Giant Danio and Sterba's Corydoras together?

Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 28°C. A target of around 26.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Giant Danio or Sterba's Corydoras aggressive?

Giant Danio is generally mild-mannered (3/10) and Sterba's Corydoras is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Giant Danio and Sterba's Corydoras need?

Both species overlap in the 6–7.6 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.


Related Comparisons