Can Reedfish (Ropefish) and True Julii Corydoras Live Together?

Possible with Caution

Keeping Reedfish (Ropefish) and True Julii Corydoras together is possible but requires caution, though some care is needed. Provide a spacious tank of at least 180 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

Reedfish (Ropefish)

Erpetoichthys calabaricus

True Julii Corydoras

Corydoras julii

🐠Family Group
Reedfish (Ropefish)
Oddballs
True Julii Corydoras
Catfish
Temperament
Reedfish (Ropefish)
Mostly Peaceful (3/10)
True Julii Corydoras
Peaceful (0/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Reedfish (Ropefish)
22–28°C
True Julii Corydoras
23–26°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Reedfish (Ropefish)
6–7.5
True Julii Corydoras
6–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Reedfish (Ropefish)
5–20
True Julii Corydoras
2–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Reedfish (Ropefish)
Freshwater Only
True Julii Corydoras
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Reedfish (Ropefish)
Low
True Julii Corydoras
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 180 L
Reedfish (Ropefish)
180 L
True Julii Corydoras
60 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Reedfish (Ropefish)
BottomMiddle
True Julii Corydoras
Bottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Reedfish (Ropefish)
Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish)Shrimp EaterJumper (Lid Required)NocturnalHyperactive / Fast SwimmerSlime Coat Eater (Attacks Flat Fish)
True Julii Corydoras
Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Reedfish (Ropefish) and True Julii Corydoras?

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.

Reedfish (Ropefish)
True Julii Corydoras
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Reedfish (Ropefish) is a generally mild-mannered species (3/10), while True Julii Corydoras is peaceful (0/10). This modest difference means Reedfish (Ropefish) may occasionally assert dominance over True Julii Corydoras.

Reedfish (Ropefish) and True Julii 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: Reedfish (Ropefish) is nocturnal and will be most active after lights-out, naturally reducing daytime encounters. Also, Reedfish (Ropefish) is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 23°C and 26°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 24.5°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 Reedfish (Ropefish) and True Julii Corydoras together, plan for an aquarium of at least 180 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.

Because this pairing requires extra vigilance, include plenty of hiding spots — caves, driftwood, and dense plant clusters — so the less dominant fish can retreat when needed.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Sand (Sifters), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Plants - Densely covered. 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.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Reedfish (Ropefish) and True Julii Corydoras.

Show 5 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Reedfish (Ropefish) and True Julii Corydoras live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 180 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Reedfish (Ropefish) and True Julii Corydoras need?

A minimum of 180 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 Reedfish (Ropefish) and True Julii Corydoras together?

Keep the aquarium between 23°C and 26°C. A target of around 24.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Reedfish (Ropefish) or True Julii Corydoras aggressive?

Reedfish (Ropefish) is generally mild-mannered (3/10) and True Julii Corydoras is peaceful (0/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Reedfish (Ropefish) and True Julii Corydoras 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.

Does Reedfish (Ropefish) being nocturnal affect compatibility?

Reedfish (Ropefish) 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 Reedfish (Ropefish) during evening hours.


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