Can Jack Dempsey Cichlid Live With Pygmy Corydoras?
Jack Dempsey Cichlid is aggressive and will likely attack or stress tank mates.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Jack Dempsey Cichlid | Pygmy Corydoras | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–86°F | 72–79°F | 72–79°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 6.5–8 | 6–7.5 | 6.5–7.5 ✓ |
| Temperament | aggressive | peaceful | Aggression risk ✗ |
| Max Size | 10" | 1" | Size mismatch ✗ |
| Min Tank Size | 55 gal | 10 gal | 55 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Carnivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | intermediate | beginner | — |
Species Profiles
Jack Dempsey Cichlid
Rocio octofasciata
Named after the legendary boxer, Jack Dempsey cichlids are large, territorial Central American cichlids with iridescent blue-green spangles across their dark body. They are aggressive, intelligent, and interactive — many owners report them coming to the glass to greet them. The electric blue Jack Dempsey variant is significantly less aggressive and more colorful.
Full care guide →Pygmy Corydoras
Corydoras pygmaeus
Pygmy corydoras are tiny, adorable catfish that max out at just 1 inch. Unlike other corys that stay on the bottom, pygmy corys are unique in that they frequently swim in the mid-water column, hovering in groups like tiny helicopters. They are perfect for nano tanks and shrimp tanks, and their micro-schooling behavior is endlessly entertaining.
Full care guide →