Corydoras Pigmeus

🐾 Corydoras pygmaeus – Pygmy Cory Care Guide

The Pygmy Corydoras (Corydoras pygmaeus) is a tiny, peaceful catfish native to the Madeira River basin in Brazil. Unlike many other Corydoras species, it not only scavenges along the bottom but often swims in the middle of the tank in small, active shoals. Its compact size, gentle nature, and charming behavior make it a favorite for nano and community aquariums.

🐟 Species Overview

• Scientific Name: Corydoras pygmaeus

• Common Name: Pygmy Cory

• Origin: Madeira River Basin, Brazil

• Adult Size: 0.75–1 inch (2–2.5 cm)

• Lifespan: 3–5 years (up to 6 with excellent care)

• Temperament: Peaceful and social

• Swimming Zone: Bottom and midwater

• Activity: Active in groups, especially in the open

🏡 Aquarium Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters)

• Tank Type: Nano tank or peaceful community setup

• Substrate: Fine sand is ideal to protect their delicate barbels

• Décor:

  • Driftwood, leaf litter, and smooth stones

  • Dense plant cover and open swimming space

• Lighting: Low to moderate

• Water Movement: Gentle flow; avoid strong currents

• Filtration: Sponge filters or gentle HOB filters work best

💡 Pygmy Corys are one of the few Corydoras that regularly explore midwater zones—give them space to roam freely.

💧 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)

• pH Range: 6.2–7.4

• Hardness: 2–12 dGH

• TDS: 80–200 ppm

• Water Changes: 25–40% weekly

📌 Stable, clean water is essential. Poor substrate maintenance can lead to barbel damage.

🍽️ Diet & Feeding

Corydoras pygmaeus are omnivorous micro-foragers that do best with finely sized food options.

• Staple Foods:

  • Sinking nano pellets

  • Micro wafers

• Protein-Rich Additions:

  • Live or frozen baby brine shrimp, micro worms, daphnia

• Vegetables (optional):

  • Crushed spirulina flakes or blanched greens in small amounts

• Feeding Frequency: 1–2 small meals per day

🛑 These fish will not thrive on leftover flakes alone—ensure food reaches the lower levels of the tank.

🤝 Compatibility & Tankmates

• Ideal Tankmates:

  • Small peaceful species: Neon Tetras, Ember Tetras, Endler’s Livebearers, Celestial Pearl Danios

  • Shrimp, Otocinclus, and other micro fish

• Avoid:

  • Large or aggressive species

  • Fast, competitive eaters that outpace pygmies

💡 Corydoras pygmaeus should be kept in groups of 8 or more to feel secure and exhibit their natural schooling behavior.

🐣 Breeding Tips

Breeding is very possible in home aquariums and often occurs spontaneously in well-maintained environments.

• Spawning Style: Egg-layer; eggs are usually laid on glass or plant leaves

• Breeding Triggers:

  • Cooler water changes

  • High-protein feeding regimen

• Fry Care:

  • Remove eggs to a separate tank to avoid predation

  • Feed fry infusoria or powdered fry food, then baby brine shrimp

🍼 Use sponge filters in fry tanks to prevent accidental intake and maintain clean water.

📝 Quick Care Summary

🔧 Pro Tips

• Keep them in larger groups for natural schooling behavior

• Add floating plants to diffuse light and create a more secure atmosphere

• Use a fine sand substrate to allow natural sifting and protect their mouthparts

• Consider a black background and soft lighting to enhance their reflective silver body