Here’s a simple, reliable care guide for the Corydoras aeneus, one of the most popular and beginner-friendly Cory catfish species.
Corydoras aeneus Care Guide
Common Names:
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Bronze Cory
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Green Cory
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Aeneus Cory
Scientific Name: Corydoras aeneus
Origin: South America (Argentina, Colombia, Trinidad, Venezuela, Peru)
Size: 2.5–3 inches (6–7.5 cm)
Lifespan: 5–10 years
Temperament: Very peaceful, social, bottom-dweller
Tank Setup
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Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum (for a group of 5–6)
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Substrate: Fine sand is ideal—protects their sensitive barbels
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Decor: Driftwood, rocks, caves, leaf litter, soft plants
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Plants: Plant-safe and do well in planted aquariums
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Lighting: Low to moderate—appreciates shade or plant cover
Water Parameters
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Temperature: 72–79°F (22–26°C)
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pH: 6.0–7.5
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Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (2–12 dGH)
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Filtration: Gentle flow with good oxygenation
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Water Changes: 25–40% weekly
Diet
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Feeding Style: Bottom-feeder and scavenger
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Staple Foods:
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Sinking pellets or wafers (cory-specific or omnivore)
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Frozen/live foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia
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Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, peas occasionally)
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Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times daily
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Note: They won’t survive on leftovers—feed them directly
Behavior & Tankmates
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Group Size: Minimum of 5–6 (they are schooling fish)
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Temperament: Peaceful, active, fun to watch in a group
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Good Tankmates:
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Tetras, rasboras, peaceful barbs, dwarf cichlids, gouramis
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Other Corydoras or peaceful bottom-dwellers
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Avoid: Aggressive or fin-nipping fish
Breeding
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Spawning Type: Egg scatterer
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Breeding Setup: Separate tank or heavy planting
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Trigger: Large cool water changes and protein-rich food
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Egg Care: Adults may eat eggs—remove eggs or adults after spawning
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Fry Feeding: Infusoria, then baby brine shrimp
Care Tips
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Never use sharp gravel—damages their barbels and mouth area
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Keep water clean and stable—they are sensitive to ammonia and nitrites
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Don’t keep them alone—they thrive in a social group
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Known for “sipping air” at the surface—normal behavior
Let me know if you want a care sheet bundle with other common Corydoras species or something printable for quick reference.
