Can Long-Finned African Tetra and Schwartz's Cory Live Together?

Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Long-Finned African Tetra and Schwartz's 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 200 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Long-Finned African Tetra

Brycinus longipinnis

Schwartz's Cory

Corydoras schwartzi

🐠Family Group
Long-Finned African Tetra
Characins
Schwartz's Cory
Catfish
Temperament
Long-Finned African Tetra
Peaceful (2/10)
Schwartz's Cory
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Long-Finned African Tetra
22–26°C
Schwartz's Cory
22–26°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Long-Finned African Tetra
6–8
Schwartz's Cory
6–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Long-Finned African Tetra
5–19
Schwartz's Cory
2–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Long-Finned African Tetra
Freshwater Only
Schwartz's Cory
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Long-Finned African Tetra
High
Schwartz's Cory
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 200 L
Long-Finned African Tetra
200 L
Schwartz's Cory
60 L
Swimming Level
✓ Different zones
Long-Finned African Tetra
TopMiddle
Schwartz's Cory
Bottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Long-Finned African Tetra
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerJumper (Lid Required)Fry PredatorAggressive Eater (Starves shy fish)
Schwartz's Cory
Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Long-Finned African Tetra and Schwartz's 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.

Long-Finned African Tetra
Schwartz's Cory
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Long-Finned African Tetra is a peaceful species (2/10), while Schwartz's Cory is peaceful (1/10). This modest difference means Long-Finned African Tetra may occasionally assert dominance over Schwartz's Cory.

In terms of spatial distribution, Long-Finned African Tetra prefers the Top (Surface) and Middle (Open Water) zones, whereas Schwartz's 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.

Worth noting: Long-Finned African Tetra 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 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 5–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Long-Finned African Tetra and Schwartz's Cory together, plan for an aquarium of at least 200 litres with a minimum length of 120 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: Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), 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.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Long-Finned African Tetra and Schwartz's Cory.

Show 5 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Long-Finned African Tetra and Schwartz's Cory live together?

Yes. Long-Finned African Tetra and Schwartz's Cory are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Long-Finned African Tetra and Schwartz's Cory need?

A minimum of 200 litres (tank length at least 120 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 Long-Finned African Tetra and Schwartz's Cory 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 Long-Finned African Tetra or Schwartz's Cory aggressive?

Long-Finned African Tetra is peaceful (2/10) and Schwartz's Cory is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Long-Finned African Tetra and Schwartz's 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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