Bring big character into small spaces with the Pygmy Corydoras, one of the smallest and most charming freshwater fish available! With their miniature size, gentle nature, and active schooling behavior, these nano bottom dwellers are perfect for planted tanks, community aquariums, and even peaceful shrimp setups. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned aquarist, the Pygmy Cory offers endless delight with minimal care needs.
Quick Overview:
Scientific Name: Corydoras pygmaeus
Origin: South America (Brazil, Ecuador, Peru)
Size: 2.5 – 3 cm (fully grown)
Lifespan: 3 – 5 years
Temperament: Peaceful, social, active
Swimming Level: Bottom to midwater
Tank Size: 40L+ (10 gallons)
Water Temp: 22°C – 25°C
pH Range: 6.2 – 7.4
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water
Why Choose Pygmy Corydoras?
Nano-Friendly Size: Ideal for small aquariums and nano setups
Active Schooling Behavior: Unlike most Corys, they swim midwater as well as along the substrate
Plant-Safe: Won’t nibble or uproot plants
Excellent Cleaners: Help keep the tank tidy by scavenging leftover food
Peaceful Nature: Perfect community tank residents that don’t bother tankmates
Care Guide
Pygmy Corydoras are low-maintenance but thrive best with proper care and a stable, clean environment.
Tank Setup:
Substrate: Use soft sand or fine gravel to protect their delicate barbels
Filtration: Gentle filtration with low flow—avoid strong currents
Décor: Live plants, driftwood, and hiding spots provide security and enrichment
Lighting: Moderate lighting works best—too bright may stress them
Feeding:
Diet: Omnivores—feed a mix of high-quality sinking pellets, micro wafers, baby brine shrimp, daphnia, and blanched veggies
Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times daily; remove uneaten food after 2–3 hours
Tip: Feed after lights go out to mimic natural conditions
Social Behavior
Always keep in groups of 8–10 or more to prevent stress and encourage natural schooling
Peaceful with all small, non-aggressive species
Often found swimming in tight formations or darting playfully through plants and decor
Ideal Tank Mates
Compatible Species Notes
Ember Tetras Same size and temperament
Chili Rasboras Soft-water lovers, perfect in nano tanks
Shrimp (Neocaridina) Completely safe and non-predatory
Otocinclus Peaceful algae eaters, thrive in planted tanks
Avoid: Large or aggressive fish (bettas, barbs, cichlids)
Water Parameters
Keep water clean and consistent with regular weekly water changes (20–30%). A stable environment is key to health and longevity.
Temperature: 22–25°C
pH: 6.2 – 7.4
Hardness: Soft – moderate
Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm always
Nitrate: < 20 ppm
Final Thoughts
The Pygmy Corydoras is a tiny treasure with a huge heart! Whether you’re setting up a peaceful nano aquarium or enhancing your planted tank with a playful schooling species, these miniature marvels bring energy, beauty, and charm to any aquascape.
