PYGMY CORYDORAS (Corydoras pygmaeus)

Pygmy Corydoras (Corydoras pygmaeus) – Care Guide

The Pygmy Corydoras is one of the smallest and most endearing freshwater catfish available in the aquarium hobby. Known for their playful schooling behavior and peaceful temperament, these tiny bottom dwellers are perfect for nano and community aquariums alike.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Corydoras pygmaeus

• Common Names: Pygmy Cory, Pygmy Catfish

• Origin: Upper Amazon Basin – Brazil, Ecuador, Peru

• Adult Size: 0.75 – 1 inch (2 – 2.5 cm)

• Lifespan: 3 – 5 years

• Temperament: Peaceful, schooling

• Difficulty Level: Easy

• Diet: Omnivore

• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons

Appearance

The Pygmy Cory has a slender silver body with a distinctive horizontal black stripe running from its snout to its tail, topped with a subtle metallic sheen. Their small size and active nature make them especially charming in planted aquariums.

Tank Requirements

Tank Size:
A minimum of 10 gallons is suitable for a small group, though larger is always better.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72 – 78°F (22 – 26°C)

• pH: 6.0 – 7.5

• Hardness: 2 – 15 dGH

Substrate:
Soft, fine sand or smooth gravel is ideal to protect their delicate barbels.

Aquascaping:

• Provide dense plants, driftwood, and hiding places for security.

• Include open swimming areas, as Pygmy Corys often swim mid-water in addition to the bottom.

• Gentle filtration and calm water flow suit them best.

Diet & Feeding

Pygmy Corydoras are omnivores and will thrive on a varied diet.

• Staple Diet: High-quality sinking micro-pellets or wafers.

• Protein Foods: Frozen or live micro foods such as baby brine shrimp, daphnia, and microworms.

• Vegetable Matter: Algae wafers or spirulina-based sinking foods.
  Feed small amounts twice daily, ensuring food reaches the bottom where they feed.

Temperament & Tank Mates

These peaceful fish should be kept in groups of at least 6–8, as they are highly social and feel safest in numbers.
Suitable tank mates include:

• Small tetras (e.g., neon tetras, ember tetras)

• Rasboras

• Small peaceful gouramis

• Other small Corydoras species

• Shrimp and snails

Avoid housing with large or aggressive species that may view them as food.

Breeding

Pygmy Corydoras are egg scatterers.

• Use a separate breeding tank with fine-leaved plants or spawning mops.

• Condition with high-protein live foods.

• Slightly cooler water changes can help trigger spawning.

• After eggs are laid, remove adults to prevent egg predation.

Special Notes

• Keep water clean and stable—Pygmy Corys are sensitive to poor water quality.

• They are more active than many Corydoras and will often swim mid-water with their school.

• Weekly water changes of 25–30% will maintain health and vibrancy.

Summary:
The Pygmy Corydoras is a delightful, peaceful nano catfish that adds movement, personality, and charm to planted or community aquariums. Their small size, playful schooling, and gentle nature make them an ideal choice for aquarists looking to add life and activity to smaller tanks.