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Pygmy corydoras (Corydoras pygmaeus)
Photo: Carnat Joel · CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Pygmy corydoras

Corydoras pygmaeus · Callichthyidae

Also known as Pygmy cory, Dwarf cory

Beginner

A 2.5 cm cory that shoals in mid-water rather than staying on the sand.

In short: A pygmy corydoras needs at least 40 L (11 US gal), water at 22–26 °C (72–79 °F) and pH 6–7.5. It is peaceful, best kept in groups of 8 or more, and rated beginner to keep.

Minimum tank
40 L (11 US gal)
Temperature
22–26 °C (72–79 °F)
pH
6–7.5
Adult size
2.5 cm (1 in)
Group size
8+

Care requirements

Minimum tank volume
40 L (11 US gal)
Temperature
22–26 °C (72–79 °F)
pH
6–7.5
Hardness
2–12 dGH
Lifespan
3–5 years
Diet
Omnivore — crushed sinking food, baby brine, micro pellets.
Care level
Beginner

Origin & habitat

Native region
Madeira basin, Brazil
Water type
Freshwater
Biotope
Leaf-littered forest tributaries
Natural conditions
Soft, warm, slow, shaded water.

Behaviour & stocking

Temperament
Peaceful
Minimum group
8 fish
Swims
Bottom
Good tank mates
Chili rasbora
Ember tetra
Cherry shrimp
Sparkling gourami
Avoid
Angelfish
Betta
Any fish that can swallow them

Breeding & difficulty

Breeding difficulty
Intermediate
Sexing
Females are noticeably rounder.
Notes
Scatters single eggs on moss and glass; fry need very fine food.
Common ailments
Starvation in competitive tanks
Ich
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