Corydoras – Peppered Cory Catfish – 3.5cm

Peppered Cory Catfish – A Hardy and Charming Bottom-Dweller

The Peppered Cory Catfish (Corydoras paleatus) is a well-loved aquarium species known for its speckled appearance and peaceful demeanor. Native to the cool freshwater streams of South America, this resilient catfish is ideal for aquarists of all experience levels. Its sociable nature and playful behavior make it a delightful addition to any community tank.

Size and Lifespan

The Peppered Cory Catfish typically grows to 6–7 cm in length and can live for 5–10 years with proper care. Stable water conditions and a varied diet are key to ensuring a long and healthy life.

Ideal Tank Setup

A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended for the Peppered Cory Catfish. Use a soft, sandy substrate to protect their sensitive barbels, and include decorations like driftwood, caves, and live plants for cover. Keep the water parameters within a pH range of 6.5–7.5, a temperature of 20–25°C, and ensure gentle water flow to replicate their natural habitat.

Compatible Tank Mates

This peaceful species thrives in groups of at least six and pairs well with other non-aggressive fish such as tetras, guppies, and small rasboras. Avoid housing them with larger, predatory species that may intimidate or harm them.

Feeding and Nutrition

The Peppered Cory Catfish is omnivorous and enjoys a varied diet. Offer high-quality sinking pellets as their main food, supplemented with occasional live or frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp. Blanched vegetables like zucchini or spinach are also appreciated. Feed them 2–3 times daily in small portions to ensure they stay active and healthy.

Breeding and Behaviour

Breeding Peppered Cory Catfish is relatively easy. Males are smaller and slimmer than females. To encourage spawning, perform frequent water changes and lower the water temperature slightly to mimic the rainy season. Females will lay adhesive eggs on tank surfaces, and the fry hatch in 4–6 days. Feed the fry with powdered or liquid fry food for proper growth.

This active bottom-dweller spends much of its time foraging along the substrate, making it both a practical cleaner and an entertaining presence in the aquarium.

Species Overview

• Species: Corydoras paleatus
• Common Name: Peppered Cory Catfish
• Origin: South America
• Diet: Omnivorous
• pH Range: 6.5–7.5
• Temperature: 20–25°C
• Max Size: 6–7 cm
• Tank Size: 20 gallons

FAQs About Peppered Cory Catfish

How large do they grow?
They grow up to 6–7 cm, making them ideal for small to medium-sized aquariums.

What do they eat?
Their diet includes sinking pellets, live or frozen foods like bloodworms, and blanched vegetables such as zucchini.

Are they easy to breed?
Yes, breeding is straightforward. Females lay adhesive eggs, which hatch in 4–6 days under optimal conditions.

What water parameters are ideal?
Maintain a pH of 6.5–7.5, a temperature of 20–25°C, and gentle water flow to replicate their natural environment.

Can they live with guppies?
Yes, guppies are excellent tank mates due to their peaceful nature.

Add a Peppered Cory Catfish to Your Aquarium Today!

Introduce the playful and hardy Peppered Cory Catfish to your tank. Order now to enjoy this delightful and sociable bottom-dweller!