Can Corydoras Catfish live with YoYo Loach?
Case-by-case. Watch group sizes, tank size, and feeding zones.
Why Corydoras Catfish and YoYo Loach Don't Make an Easy Pair
They can coexist, but you need to manage the setup carefully. The temperature margin is tight — only 3°F of safe overlap, which leaves little room for thermostat drift.
Corydoras Catfish
Corydoras aeneus
| Adult Size: | 2.8" |
| Temperament: | peaceful |
| Min Tank: | 20 gal |
| Temperature: | 72-78°F |
| pH Range: | 6.0-7.5 |
YoYo Loach
Botia almorhae
| Adult Size: | 5.0" |
| Temperament: | peaceful |
| Min Tank: | 30 gal |
| Temperature: | 75-86°F |
| pH Range: | 6.0-7.5 |
Water Parameter Overlap
| Parameter | Corydoras Catfish | YoYo Loach | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72-78°F | 75-86°F | 3°F ✓ |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 | 6.0-7.5 | 1.5 ✓ |
Compatibility Breakdown
Temperament Match: peaceful + peaceful. Both peaceful → minimal conflict.
⚠️ Size Predation Risk: Corydoras Catfish (2.8") vs YoYo Loach (5.0"). A 2.2" gap — the larger fish will view the smaller fish as food.
Score: 60.0/100 (GOOD ≥80, CAUTION ≥50, RISKY <50).
🔧 Tank Setup Requirements (for Both)
- Minimum tank: 30 gallons — sized for the larger fish in the pair.
- Temperature: keep it between 75°F and 78°F.
- pH: maintain 6.0 – 7.5.
- Hiding spots: essential for Corydoras Catfish — caves, plants, or driftwood to retreat when feeling stressed.
- Water changes: 25% weekly minimum. Two species mean double the bioload.
🔧 Tank Stocking Calculator
Enter tank size to calculate safe stocking levels:
Recommended Equipment
Based on tank size 30+ gallons:
Sinking wafers for bottom-dwelling loaches
Explore Related Checks
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Accuracy note: This tool uses expert rules + FishBase.org data. Individual fish behavior varies — a peaceful individual Corydoras Catfish may act differently from its species average. Always observe, quarantine new arrivals for 2-4 weeks, and avoid overcrowding. If a pairing says CAUTION, start with a smaller group and a lid.