Can Serpae Tetra Live With Pygmy Corydoras?
Serpae Tetra and Pygmy Corydoras may coexist with careful monitoring, adequate space, and hiding spots.
Conditions: Minimum 20 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Serpae Tetra | Pygmy Corydoras | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–82°F | 72–79°F | 72–79°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 5.5–7.5 | 6–7.5 | 6–7.5 ✓ |
| Temperament | semi-aggressive | peaceful | Monitor ⚠ |
| Max Size | 1.75" | 1" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 20 gal | 10 gal | 20 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | beginner | beginner | — |
Tank Requirements for Serpae Tetra + Pygmy Corydoras
To keep Serpae Tetra and Pygmy Corydoras together, you need at minimum a 20 gallon tank. Serpae Tetra should be kept in a school of 8+. Pygmy Corydoras should be kept in a school of 10+. Provide adequate filtration, stable temperature with a heater, and hiding spots to reduce stress.
Species Profiles
Serpae Tetra
Hyphessobrycon eques
Serpae tetras are vibrant blood-red schooling fish with a distinctive black comma-shaped marking behind the gill plate. While beautiful, they have a reputation as fin nippers — especially in small groups. Keeping them in schools of 8+ in a spacious tank significantly reduces this behavior. They add bold color to community tanks when kept properly.
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 →