Difficulty: Beginner-FriendlySize: 1.5–3 inches (varies by species)Temperament: Peaceful bottom dwellerLifespan: 5–8 years
💧 Tank Setup
- Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons; always keep in groups of 6+ — they’re schooling catfish.
- Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel — rough substrate can wear down their barbels.
- Water Range: 72–78 °F, pH 6.5–7.5, soft to moderately hard water.
- Environment: Add driftwood, smooth stones, and live plants for shade and oxygenation.
💡 Lesser-Known Tip: Corydoras gulp air from the surface using a modified intestine — it’s normal! But if they do it constantly, check for low oxygen levels.
🍽️ Diet
- Staple: Sinking pellets or wafers.
- Supplements: Frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and crushed snails for protein.
- Feeding Routine: Feed 30 minutes after lights out — they forage best in dim light.
💡 Pro Tip: Rotate foods — a mix of pellets, veggies, and occasional live snacks leads to thicker, healthier bodies and brighter eyes.
🧬 Breeding Behavior
- Type: Egg layer (T-position spawn).
- Trigger: Large cool-water change (simulate rainfall).
- Setup: Smooth surfaces or spawning mops for eggs; remove adults afterward.
- Egg Care: Add methylene blue or Indian almond leaves to prevent fungus.
💡 Breeder Insight: Females “cup” eggs in their pelvic fins before sticking them to glass — an amazing behavior to watch!
🤝 Tank Mates
Perfect with tetras, rasboras, livebearers, shrimp, and peaceful dwarf cichlids.Avoid large or aggressive fish that may outcompete them for food.
Which Cory species do you keep — Panda, Sterbai, or maybe a rare one like Orange Laser? 🧡Post a photo of your favorite and tell us what substrate or food keeps them happiest in your tank!