GoldfishVSCory Catfish

Can they live together? Complete Compatibility Analysis

Compatibility Score

🚫 Do Not Mix

Goldfish are coldwater fish that produce a high bioload and prefer cooler temperatures. Cory Catfish are tropical, peaceful bottom-dwellers that require warmer, stable temperatures. Their core environmental needs are incompatible.

Potential Issues

•Goldfish require cooler water (60-74°F), while Cory Catfish require tropical temperatures (72-79°F). Keeping them together will stress one or both species, leading to illness and death.
•Goldfish are messy and produce significant waste, which can degrade water quality and harm the more sensitive Cory Catfish.
•Goldfish may outcompete Cory Catfish for food and can grow large enough to accidentally ingest smaller Corys.

Tank Requirements

Temperature

Incompatible. Goldfish: 60-74°F. Cory Catfish: 72-79°F.

pH Level

Moderately compatible. Both prefer neutral to slightly alkaline water (6.5-7.8).

Minimum Tank Size

Not applicable for a mixed tank. For species-specific setups: 30+ gallons for fancy goldfish, 20+ gallons for a Cory school.

About Goldfish and Cory Catfish

When considering adding Cory Catfish to a tank with Goldfish, it's crucial to understand their specific needs. Goldfish are coldwater fish that produce a high bioload and prefer cooler temperatures. Cory Catfish are tropical, peaceful bottom-dwellers that require warmer, stable temperatures. Their core environmental needs are incompatible.

Key Differences

Goldfish: Requires 20 gallons minimum. Usually prefers coldwater water conditions.
Cory Catfish: Requires 10 gallons minimum. Usually prefers tropical water conditions.

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