Can Pygmy Cory live with Colombian Zebra Pleco?
Caution — with care
Why
- Only a narrow water hardness overlap — keep both around 6–7.5 dGH.
- Large size gap (Pygmy Cory 1" vs Colombian Zebra Pleco 3.5") — the bigger fish may eat the smaller one as they grow.
Sweet spot: both do well at 77–79°F and pH 6.5–7.5 — aim there.
Side-by-side
| Pygmy Cory | Colombian Zebra Pleco | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–79°F | 77–82°F |
| pH | 6–7.5 | 6.5–7.6 |
| Hardness (GH) | 2–12 dGH | 6–7.5 dGH |
| Adult size | 1" | 3.5" |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Peaceful |
| Min tank | 10 gal | 30 gal |
Together, plan on at least 30 gallons.
How to make it work
- Target the overlapping water-parameter range and acclimate slowly.
- Add only full-grown adults — never juveniles, which will be eaten.
Sort it with: GH remineraliser → Aquarium Co-Op
Where to buy
- Pygmy Cory: buy at Flip Aquatics · Flip Aquatics live-arrival guarantee
- Colombian Zebra Pleco: 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 Pygmy Cory · …with Colombian Zebra Pleco