Corydoras

Corydoras key facts

Care level

Beginner-friendly

Lifespan

5-10 years

Size

3-8cm

Temperature

22〜26℃

Diet

Sinking tablets, frozen bloodworms

Container & Tank

A tank of 45 cm or more is recommended for a group. Fine, smooth sand is essential; sharp gravel damages the barbels.

Water Temperature & Quality

Slightly acidic to neutral water (pH 6.0-7.5) at 22-26°C suits it. Lifespan is 5-10 years.

Tank Mates & Compatibility

Very peaceful and social; keeping 5 or more of the same species makes them active.

Diet & Feeding

Eats sinking tablets and frozen bloodworms from the bottom, using its barbels to search the substrate for food.

Notes

Many species sensitive to medications — use half dose

Breeding & Egg-laying

Known for the unusual T-position spawning; eggs are stuck onto the glass or plant leaves.

About Corydoras

Corydoras are a diverse group of small catfish native primarily to the Amazon River basin of South America, with over 160 known species that have been scientifically described since the 19th century, and new species continue to be discovered. Ranging from 3 to 8 centimeters depending on the species, they are distinguished by bony plates called scutes that cover their bodies in place of scales. Their two pairs of sensitive barbels around the mouth are used to sift through substrate in search of food, producing the endearing rooting behavior that makes them so beloved. Gentle and somewhat shy by nature, corydoras are social fish that live in groups, making multi-individual keeping essential for their wellbeing. They coexist peacefully with tetras and other small community fish, while also contributing to the tank ecosystem by cleaning up leftover food from the bottom. Hardy and relatively disease-resistant when kept in suitable conditions, they can live 5 to 10 years, earning devoted fans among both beginners and dedicated collectors alike.

7 things to know before welcoming a Corydoras

1. 1Keep Them in Groups

   Corydoras are social fish that thrive in groups; kept alone, they tend to hide and show signs of stress. Aim for a minimum of 3–6 individuals of the same or compatible species to see their natural, lively schooling behavior.

2. 2Choose Substrate Carefully

   Corydoras sift through substrate with their sensitive barbels to find food, so sharp-edged gravel can injure their mouths and whiskers. Fine-grained, smooth river sand or small rounded substrate is the safest choice to protect their barbels and support natural foraging behavior.

3. 3Stable, Soft Water Is Key

   Most Corydoras originate from South American river systems and prefer a pH of 6.0–7.5 with water temperatures of 22–26°C. They are sensitive to sudden water-parameter shifts, so limit water changes to about one-third of the tank volume at a time and always dechlorinate new water thoroughly.

4. 4Use Sinking Foods

   As bottom-dwellers, Corydoras rarely reach surface-floating flakes before other fish do. Provide sinking wafers or pellets as a staple diet, supplemented with frozen bloodworms or tubifex dropped directly to the substrate to ensure they get adequate nutrition.

5. 5Choose Tankmates Wisely

   Corydoras are peaceful and pose no threat to other fish, making them excellent community tank members alongside mid- and upper-level species. However, avoid housing them with large predatory fish or highly territorial species that may stress or harm them. Small, peaceful fish like tetras or rasboras are ideal companions.

6. 6Note Their Bony Armor

   Unlike most fish, Corydoras are covered in overlapping bony plates called scutes rather than soft scales, giving them natural armor. Because their fin spines can snag easily in nets, it is safest to transfer them using a smooth container or cup rather than a standard mesh net to avoid injury.

7. 7Watch for Ich After Introduction

   Newly purchased Corydoras are vulnerable to ich (white spot disease) during the stress of transport and acclimation. Quarantining them in a separate tank for approximately two weeks before introducing them to your main aquarium helps protect both the new fish and your existing livestock from potential infection.

Frequently asked questions about Corydoras

Q.Can I keep a single corydoras on its own?

A.While it is technically possible, corydoras are social fish that feel stressed without companions. Keeping at least three individuals of the same species is strongly recommended for their health and happiness.

Q.Are corydoras suitable for planted tanks?

A.Corydoras generally do well in planted tanks, especially when paired with fine soft sand that protects plant roots. However, their active bottom-dwelling behavior may occasionally dislodge plants with shallow or delicate root systems.

Q.Can corydoras be kept with other tropical fish?

A.Yes, their peaceful nature makes them excellent community fish alongside small, gentle species like tetras, guppies, and platies. Avoid housing them with large predatory fish or aggressive species that may bully or harm them.

Q.Is it a problem if my corydoras stays still at the bottom?

A.Corydoras are naturally slow-moving and often rest at the bottom, so some stillness is normal. However, eroded barbels, faded coloration, or rapid breathing may indicate poor water quality or illness. Check their appetite and overall physical condition as well.

Q.How long do corydoras live?

A.With proper care, corydoras typically live 5 to 10 years, and some individuals have been reported to live even longer. Consistent water quality, a balanced diet, and a low-stress environment are the key factors for a long and healthy life.

Useful tools for Corydoras care

Learn more about Corydoras in the encyclopedia

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