Dwarf corydoras - Corydoras pygmaeus

Scientific name: Corydoras pygmaeus

Common name: Dwarf corydoras

Family: Callichthyidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 2 - 3 cm (0.79 - 1.18 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 7.8

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 20°N (71.43 - 357.14ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 27 °C (71.6 - 80.6°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Food and Feeding

Dwarf Corydoras are small and require food suited to their size. Use high-quality flakes and small sinking pellets as their staple diet. They will happily accept live and frozen foods, such as bloodworms and microworms. For added variety, offer broken-up algae wafers to meet their nutritional needs. Feed small portions two to three times daily, ensuring they get enough food as they compete with other bottom dwellers in the tank.

Origin

Native to South America, Dwarf Corydoras are commonly found in the slow-moving rivers and tributaries of the Amazon Basin. Their natural habitat consists of shaded areas with soft, sandy substrates and abundant vegetation, providing cover and a food source.

Sexing

Sexing Dwarf Corydoras can be challenging. However, when viewed from above, females tend to be larger and have a more rounded body shape compared to the slimmer, more streamlined males.

Breeding

Breeding Dwarf Corydoras is relatively straightforward, especially when kept in well-maintained conditions. During spawning, they scatter their eggs across plants and the tank glass, often placing the eggs separately rather than in clusters. To encourage breeding, perform regular water changes and maintain soft, slightly acidic water. The eggs usually hatch within 3-5 days. Due to their tiny size, the fry should be fed newly hatched brine shrimp or finely crushed flake food. As they grow, gradually introduce them to a varied diet.

Lifespan

With proper care, the expected lifespan of Dwarf Corydoras is 3-5 years. Maintaining stable water conditions and a nutritious diet is key to their longevity.

Tank Setup and Care

Dwarf Corydoras are best kept in groups of at least 6, as they are a social species that thrives in the company of their kind. A minimum tank size of 40 liters (10 gallons) is recommended. Use soft sand or smooth gravel as the substrate to prevent damage to their delicate barbels. They prefer tanks with dense vegetation, including plants like Amazon Swords or Cryptocoryne, providing cover and shelter. Maintain the water temperature between 22-27°C (71.6-80.6°F) with a pH range of 6-7.8 and water hardness between 4-20°N (71.43-357.14 ppm). Regular water changes and a gentle filtration system will help keep the water quality high, which is essential for their health.

Tankmates

Dwarf Corydoras are peaceful and make excellent additions to community tanks. Suitable tankmates include small, non-aggressive species such as:

• Neon Tetras (Paracheirodon innesi)
• Harlequin Rasboras (Trigonostigma heteromorpha)
• Zebra Danios (Danio rerio)
• Guppies (Poecilia reticulata)

Avoid housing them with larger, aggressive fish that may view them as prey or outcompete them for food.

Short Description

Dwarf Corydoras are small, peaceful bottom dwellers that thrive in groups of six or more. They adapt well to community tanks and are known for their active behavior and peaceful nature. With proper care and the right tank setup, they make a delightful addition to freshwater aquariums.

Pictures

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.