Corydoras Catfish

• ExerciseModerate

  An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• GroomingEasy tank upkeep

  No grooming here — steady water quality and routine tank care do it.

• Living spaceNano-tank friendly

  Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment5–10 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Fin rot · Skin conditions

Corydoras catfish are a huge genus of small armoured catfish from the streams and shallow rivers of South America, with the bronze cory (Corydoras aeneus) being the most familiar. Most species reach 5–7 cm and can live 5–10 years or longer. Their bodies are covered in bony plates rather than scales, giving them their 'armoured' name. Corys are social bottom-dwellers that must be kept in groups of six or more in a tank of 75 litres or larger. Keep them at 22–26°C with a pH of 6.0–7.5 over soft sand or smooth gravel, since sharp substrate erodes their delicate barbels. They also gulp air from the surface using a modified intestine, so leave surface access. As bottom-feeding omnivores they need sinking pellets, wafers and frozen treats — never assume they survive on leftovers alone. Peaceful and compatible with nearly any calm community fish, their main risks are barbel infections from dirty or sharp substrate, ich and fin rot. Clean sand, good filtration and a varied sinking diet keep these cheerful catfish thriving.

• How active is a Corydoras Catfish?

  Moderate. An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• How much maintenance does a Corydoras Catfish need?

  Easy tank upkeep. No grooming here — steady water quality and routine tank care do it.

• What tank size does a Corydoras Catfish need?

  Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Is a Corydoras Catfish a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Corydoras Catfish live?

  5–10 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Corydoras Catfish?

  Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Skin conditions. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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