Pygmy Corydoras: The Tiny, Lively Bottom-Dweller Perfect for Community Tanks

If you’re looking for a small, peaceful, and active catfish to add charm and life to your aquarium’s bottom layer, the Pygmy Corydoras (Corydoras pygmaeus) are a fantastic choice. These miniature catfish pack a lot of personality into their tiny 1-inch bodies and make wonderful companions in planted community tanks.

Let’s explore what makes the Pygmy Corydoras such a beloved species and how to care for them.

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What Are Pygmy Corydoras?

Pygmy Corydoras are among the smallest members of the Corydoras genus, growing to about 1 to 1.5 inches in length. They are native to slow-moving streams and floodplain lakes in South America and are known for their peaceful, schooling behavior and active foraging.

Their slender bodies have a distinctive horizontal black stripe running from their nose to the base of the tail, set against a silver or pale tan background, giving them a sleek and elegant appearance.

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Why Choose Pygmy Corydoras?

• Small Size: Perfect for smaller tanks (10 gallons or larger) and planted aquariums.

• Peaceful and Social: Thrive in groups of 6 or more, displaying schooling behavior that is delightful to watch.

• Bottom Cleaners: Actively forage for leftover food, helping keep the tank clean.

• Active and Hardy: Adaptable to a range of water conditions and highly active throughout the day.

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Tank Setup and Care

• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons for a small group (6 or more). Larger tanks allow for more natural behavior.

• Water Temperature: 72–79°F (22–26°C).

• pH Range: 6.0–7.5.

• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel to protect their delicate barbels.

• Decor: Plenty of plants, driftwood, and hiding spots to mimic their natural habitat.

• Filtration: Gentle filtration to maintain clean, oxygenated water without strong currents.

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Feeding Pygmy Corydoras

These catfish are omnivores and enjoy a varied diet:

• High-quality sinking pellets or wafers designed for bottom feeders.

• Live or frozen foods like bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp.

• Vegetable matter such as blanched zucchini or cucumber slices.

• Feed small amounts 1–2 times daily, ensuring food reaches the bottom.

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Behavior and Tankmates

• Best kept in groups of at least 6 to exhibit natural schooling behavior.

• Peaceful and compatible with most small, non-aggressive fish such as tetras, rasboras, and small barbs.

• Avoid large or aggressive fish that may bully or eat them.

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Breeding Pygmy Corydoras

Breeding these little catfish can be rewarding:

• Provide soft, slightly acidic water with temperatures around 75–78°F.

• Feed high-quality live and frozen foods to condition breeding pairs.

• They scatter eggs on plants and tank surfaces; removing adults or providing breeding nets helps protect the fry.

• Fry are tiny and require infusoria or specially prepared fry food initially.

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Final Thoughts

The Pygmy Corydoras is a charming, active, and peaceful fish perfect for small to medium community tanks. Their tiny size, social nature, and constant bottom activity make them a joy to watch and care for. If you want a lively little catfish that adds both personality and practical cleanup to your aquarium, the Pygmy Corydoras is a top pick!

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Thinking of adding Pygmy Corydoras to your aquarium? Make sure to keep them in groups and provide a peaceful, planted environment to see them thrive!