Yes they are hardy and make an excellent addition to any peaceful community aquarium.
Some people say they are best kept in a group, where they will be bolder and more active.
Although i have had no problems at all with my al and he seems to be very friendly with my pep (peppered corydoras).
Always provide them with cover like a small piece of bogwood (they won't eat the bogwood though) or something simular.
They will also live in a tank without air filteration or heaters providing the tank is placed in a warm room and the warmiest part of the room, make sure there are no draughts either.
I have placed a small air filter in my tank for al,pep & sushie (betta).
