Peppered Corydoras
Corydoras paleatus
Minimum Tank
15 Gallons
Adult Size
2.5 inches
Temperature
64-75°F (18-24°C)
pH Range
6.0-7.5
Lifespan
10 years
School Size
6+ fish
About Peppered Corydoras
The peppered corydoras is a beautifully patterned catfish from the rivers of southern Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina. Its body is covered in an irregular pattern of dark olive-green to black blotches and spots on a lighter base, creating a pepper-like speckled appearance. Peppered corys are one of the original corydoras species introduced to the aquarium hobby and remain enduringly popular. They are cool-water tolerant, naturally inhabiting subtropical streams that can drop to the low 60s Fahrenheit during winter. Like all corydoras, they are social, bottom-dwelling fish that should always be kept in groups, and they communicate with each other through body language and substrate vibrations.
Care Requirements
Tank Setup
- • Minimum 15-gallon tank required
- • Temperature: 64-75°F (18-24°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
Peppered corydoras are one of the most cold-tolerant tropical fish, comfortable at temperatures from 64-78°F, making them ideal for unheated tanks in moderate climates. Keep them in groups of at least six on smooth sand substrate. They are extremely hardy and forgiving of beginner mistakes, which has contributed to their century-long popularity. Feed sinking pellets, wafers, and frozen foods, and ensure food actually makes it to the bottom before faster mid-water fish consume it. They are easy to breed with cooler water changes and are an excellent introduction to fish breeding for beginners. Regular substrate vacuuming helps prevent barbel erosion.
Quick Facts
57L
Min Tank (15gal)
6cm
Adult Size (2.5")
10yr
Lifespan
6+
Min School
Build Your Perfect Community Tank
Find compatible tankmates for your Peppered Corydoras
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Tank Mates for Peppered Corydoras
Species from our database with overlapping water parameters, compatible temperaments and a realistic shared tank size.
Longfin Zebra Danio
Danio rerio var.
easy · 10+ gal
Pearl Danio
Danio albolineatus
easy · 20+ gal
Amano Shrimp
Caridina multidentata
easy · 10+ gal
Checker Barb
Oliotius oligolepis
easy · 20+ gal
Similar Care Level
Other easy-care species that suit a comparable setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a Peppered Corydoras need?
A Peppered Corydoras needs a minimum tank size of 15 gallons (57 litres). They should be kept in schools of at least 6.
What water parameters does a Peppered Corydoras need?
Peppered Corydoras thrive in water between 64-75°F (18-24°C) with a pH of 6.0-7.5.
Are Peppered Corydoras easy to care for?
Peppered Corydoras are considered easy to care for. They are peaceful fish with a lifespan of about 10 years.
How big do Peppered Corydoras get and what do they eat?
Peppered Corydoras reach about 2.5 inches and are omnivores. Peppered corydoras are one of the most cold-tolerant tropical fish, comfortable at temperatures from 64-78°F, making them ideal for unheated tanks in moderate climates. Keep them in groups of at least six on smooth sand substrate. They are extremely hardy and forgiving of beginner mistakes, which has contributed to their century-long popularity. Feed sinking pellets, wafers, and frozen foods, and ensure food actually makes it to the bottom before faster mid-water fish consume it. They are easy to breed with cooler water changes and are an excellent introduction to fish breeding for beginners. Regular substrate vacuuming helps prevent barbel erosion.