Can Tail Spot Pygmy Cory live with Variatus Platy?
Caution — with care
Why
- Large size gap (Tail Spot Pygmy Cory 1" vs Variatus Platy 2.75") — the bigger fish may eat the smaller one as they grow.
- No overlapping water hardness: Tail Spot Pygmy Cory wants 6–7.5 dGH but Variatus Platy wants 10–25 dGH.
Sweet spot: both do well at 72–77°F and pH 7–7.6 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Tail Spot Pygmy Cory | Variatus Platy | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–79°F | 65–77°F |
| pH | 6.5–7.6 | 7–8.2 |
| Hardness (GH) | 6–7.5 dGH | 10–25 dGH |
| Adult size | 1" | 2.75" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 10 gal | 15 gal |
Together, plan on at least 15 gallons.
How to make it work
- Add only full-grown adults — never juveniles, which will be eaten.
- Target the overlapping water-parameter range and acclimate slowly.
Sort it with: GH remineraliser → Aquarium Co-Op
Where to buy
- Tail Spot Pygmy Cory: buy at Flip Aquatics · Flip Aquatics live-arrival guarantee
- Variatus Platy: buy at Flip Aquatics · Flip Aquatics live-arrival guarantee
Live-animal shipping: add a heat pack below 50°F, expect weather holds above 90°F, and schedule delivery for a moderate week when someone can receive it promptly.
Build a full tank around this stocking →Everything compatible with Tail Spot Pygmy Cory · …with Variatus Platy