Can Tail Spot Pygmy Cory live with Swordtail?
Caution — with care
Why
- No overlapping water hardness: Tail Spot Pygmy Cory wants 6–7.5 dGH but Swordtail wants 12–30 dGH.
- Very different sizes (Swordtail 5.5" vs Tail Spot Pygmy Cory 1") — these two need different tanks, and the smaller fish will be out-competed at feeding time.
- Swordtail is semi-aggressive — give the peaceful Tail Spot Pygmy Cory plenty of space, cover and broken sight lines.
Sweet spot: both do well at 72–79°F and pH 7–7.6 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Tail Spot Pygmy Cory | Swordtail | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–79°F | 72–82°F |
| pH | 6.5–7.6 | 7–8.4 |
| Hardness (GH) | 6–7.5 dGH | 12–30 dGH |
| Adult size | 1" | 5.5" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Semi-aggressive |
| Min tank | 10 gal | 29 gal |
Together, plan on at least 29 gallons.
How to make it work
- Target the overlapping water-parameter range and acclimate slowly.
- Use a larger, well-decorated tank with sightline breaks, keep everyone well-fed, and add the calmer fish first.
Sort it with: GH remineraliser · A larger tank
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Design a tank with Tail Spot Pygmy Cory, Swordtail →Everything compatible with Tail Spot Pygmy Cory · …with Swordtail