Corydoras Catfish vs Swordtail

Side-by-side care comparison to help you choose.

Corydoras CatfishSwordtail
DifficultyBeginnerBeginner
Adult size1-2.5 inches4-5 inches
Lifespan3-5 years3-5 years
Min tank size10 gallons20 gallons
Water temp74-80°F72-82°F
pH6.5-7.57.0-8.0
Temperamentpeacefulpeaceful
Tank matesPeaceful community fish such as tetras, rasboras, and dwarf cichlids.Peaceful community fish like mollies, platies, tetras, corydoras.
DietSinking pellets or wafers as staple, supplemented with frozen or live foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp; feed once or twice daily.Omnivore; feed high-quality flake or pellet daily, supplement with frozen or live foods like brine shrimp and daphnia 2-3 times per week.