Corydoras Catfish
Corydoras sp.
Minimum Tank
10 Gallons
Adult Size
2.5 inches
Temperature
72-78°F (22-26°C)
pH Range
6.0-7.5
Lifespan
5 years
School Size
6+ fish
About Corydoras Catfish
Corydoras catfish are small, armored bottom-dwellers native to the streams and rivers of South America, where they forage in groups along sandy or muddy substrates. Their bodies are covered in bony plates called scutes rather than typical scales, giving them a distinctive armored appearance. Corydoras are social fish that communicate through body language and even produce sounds by moving their pectoral spines. With over 170 described species and many more awaiting classification, they are one of the most species-rich genera of freshwater fish. Their endearing habit of winking, which is actually a rapid eye movement to aid feeding, and their constant bustling activity make them a favorite among aquarists.
Care Requirements
Tank Setup
- • Minimum 10-gallon tank required
- • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
- • pH: 6.0 - 7.5
- • Category: Catfish
Diet & Feeding
- • Diet type: Omnivore
- • Feed 1-2 times daily
- • Varied diet recommended
Tank Mate Compatibility
Compatible With
Avoid Keeping With
Care Tips
Expert Tips
Always keep corydoras in groups of at least six, as they are highly social and become stressed or inactive when kept alone. Use smooth sand or fine gravel as substrate, since sharp gravel can damage their delicate barbels, leading to infections. They appreciate a moderate current and well-oxygenated water. Feed sinking pellets, wafers, and frozen foods like bloodworms, and make sure food actually reaches the bottom before other fish eat it all. Corydoras are sensitive to salt and many medications, so research treatments carefully before dosing. They occasionally dart to the surface to gulp air, which is normal behavior.
Quick Facts
38L
Min Tank (10gal)
6cm
Adult Size (2.5")
5yr
Lifespan
6+
Min School
Build Your Perfect Community Tank
Find compatible tankmates for your Corydoras Catfish
Related Species You Might Like
Bristlenose Pleco
Ancistrus sp.
Panda Corydoras
Corydoras panda
Bronze Corydoras
Corydoras aeneus
Peppered Corydoras
Corydoras paleatus
Sterbai Corydoras
Corydoras sterbai
Julii Corydoras
Corydoras julii
Tank Mates for Corydoras Catfish
Species from our database with overlapping water parameters, compatible temperaments and a realistic shared tank size.
Cardinal Tetra
Paracheirodon axelrodi
moderate · 15+ gal
Black Phantom Tetra
Hyphessobrycon megalopterus
easy · 15+ gal
Harlequin Rasbora
Trigonostigma heteromorpha
easy · 10+ gal
Honey Gourami
Trichogaster chuna
easy · 10+ gal
Similar Care Level
Other easy-care species that suit a comparable setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a Corydoras Catfish need?
A Corydoras Catfish needs a minimum tank size of 10 gallons (38 litres). They should be kept in schools of at least 6.
What water parameters does a Corydoras Catfish need?
Corydoras Catfish thrive in water between 72-78°F (22-26°C) with a pH of 6.0-7.5.
Are Corydoras Catfish easy to care for?
Corydoras Catfish are considered easy to care for. They are peaceful fish with a lifespan of about 5 years.
How big do Corydoras Catfish get and what do they eat?
Corydoras Catfish reach about 2.5 inches and are omnivores. Always keep corydoras in groups of at least six, as they are highly social and become stressed or inactive when kept alone. Use smooth sand or fine gravel as substrate, since sharp gravel can damage their delicate barbels, leading to infections. They appreciate a moderate current and well-oxygenated water. Feed sinking pellets, wafers, and frozen foods like bloodworms, and make sure food actually reaches the bottom before other fish eat it all. Corydoras are sensitive to salt and many medications, so research treatments carefully before dosing. They occasionally dart to the surface to gulp air, which is normal behavior.