Can Tail Spot Pygmy Cory live with Tiger Barb?
Caution — with care
Why
- Only a narrow water hardness overlap — keep both around 6–7.5 dGH.
- Tiger Barb is semi-aggressive and may bully the peaceful Tail Spot Pygmy Cory — give lots of space and cover.
- Tiger Barb is large enough to threaten a small Tail Spot Pygmy Cory — usually fine once both are adult, but watch new additions.
Sweet spot: both do well at 74–79°F and pH 6.5–7.6 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Tail Spot Pygmy Cory | Tiger Barb | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–79°F | 74–82°F |
| pH | 6.5–7.6 | 6–8 |
| Hardness (GH) | 6–7.5 dGH | 4–15 dGH |
| Adult size | 1" | 2.75" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Semi-aggressive |
| Min tank | 10 gal | 20 gal |
Together, plan on at least 20 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 → Aquarium Co-Op
Where to buy
- Tail Spot Pygmy Cory: buy at Flip Aquatics · Flip Aquatics live-arrival guarantee
- Tiger Barb: 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 Tiger Barb