Can Gold Tetra and Leopard Cory Live Together?

Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Gold Tetra and Leopard Cory 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 60 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Gold Tetra

Hemigrammus rodwayi

Leopard Cory

Corydoras leopardus

🐠Family Group
Gold Tetra
Characins
Leopard Cory
Catfish
Temperament
Gold Tetra
Peaceful (1/10)
Leopard Cory
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Gold Tetra
24–28°C
Leopard Cory
22–26°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Gold Tetra
6–7.5
Leopard Cory
6–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Gold Tetra
2–12
Leopard Cory
2–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Gold Tetra
Freshwater Only
Leopard Cory
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Gold Tetra
Moderate
Leopard Cory
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 60 L
Gold Tetra
55 L
Leopard Cory
60 L
Swimming Level
✓ Different zones
Gold Tetra
Middle
Leopard Cory
Bottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Gold Tetra
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Leopard Cory
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerDigger (Disturbs Substrate)
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Gold Tetra and Leopard Cory?

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.

Gold Tetra
Leopard Cory
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Behaviour & Temperament

Both Gold Tetra and Leopard Cory 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, Gold Tetra prefers the Middle (Open Water) zone, whereas Leopard Cory 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.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 26°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6 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 2–12 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Gold Tetra and Leopard Cory 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.

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). 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.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Gold Tetra and Leopard Cory.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can Gold Tetra and Leopard Cory live together?

Yes. Gold Tetra and Leopard Cory are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Gold Tetra and Leopard Cory 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 Gold Tetra and Leopard Cory together?

Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 26°C. A target of around 25.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Gold Tetra or Leopard Cory aggressive?

Gold Tetra is peaceful (1/10) and Leopard Cory is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Gold Tetra and Leopard Cory need?

Both species overlap in the 6–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.


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