Can Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Pygmy Corydoras Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Pygmy 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 46 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)

Melanoides tuberculata

Pygmy Corydoras

Corydoras pygmaeus

🐠Family Group
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Invertebrates
Pygmy Corydoras
Catfish
Temperament
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Peaceful (0/10)
Pygmy Corydoras
Peaceful (0/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
18–32°C
Pygmy Corydoras
22–26°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
7–8.5
Pygmy Corydoras
6–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
8–25
Pygmy Corydoras
2–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Brackish Tolerant
Pygmy Corydoras
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Low
Pygmy Corydoras
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 46 L
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
5 L
Pygmy Corydoras
38 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Bottom
Pygmy Corydoras
MiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS)
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Digger (Disturbs Substrate)Nocturnal
Pygmy Corydoras
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer

Behaviour & Temperament

Both Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Pygmy Corydoras are peaceful species with an aggression score of 0/10. Their matching temperaments mean neither fish is likely to dominate the other in a shared aquarium.

Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Pygmy 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.

Worth noting: Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) is nocturnal and will be most active after lights-out, naturally reducing daytime encounters.

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 7.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 8–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

Tank Setup

To house Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Pygmy Corydoras together, plan for an aquarium of at least 46 litres with a minimum length of 45 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), Soil / Nutrient Rich, Plants - Densely covered. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Note a potential conflict in setup requirements: Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) requires Soil / Nutrient Rich, while Pygmy Corydoras requires Sand (Sifters). These substrate types may be difficult to provide simultaneously. Compromise where possible or prioritise the more critical need.

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Pygmy Corydoras live together?

Yes. Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Pygmy Corydoras are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Pygmy Corydoras need?

A minimum of 46 litres (tank length at least 45 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 Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Pygmy 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 Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) or Pygmy Corydoras aggressive?

Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) is peaceful (0/10) and Pygmy Corydoras is peaceful (0/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) and Pygmy Corydoras need?

Both species overlap in the 7–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

Does Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) being nocturnal affect compatibility?

Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) is most active after lights-out, which naturally reduces daytime encounters with its tank mate. This can actually be beneficial, as both fish get undisturbed time to feed and explore. Just ensure food reaches Malaysian Trumpet Snail (MTS) during evening hours.


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