Pygmy Cory

The Pygmy Cory (Corydoras pygmaeus) is an adorable and tiny catfish species that brings all the charm of larger corydoras in a miniature package. These peaceful, social bottom-dwellers are known for their small size, attractive silver body with a black horizontal stripe, and fascinating behavior of swimming in mid-water like tiny tetras. Active, hardy, and endlessly entertaining to watch, Pygmy Corys are perfect for planted nano tanks and small community aquariums where their miniature size and schooling behavior can be fully appreciated.

Care Sheet – Pygmy Cory (Corydoras pygmaeus)

Temperament

• Peaceful, social schooling fish

• Best kept in groups of 8 or more for natural behavior

Adult Size

• 1 inch

Minimum Tank Size

• 10 gallons for a small school

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 72–78°F

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (2–15 dGH)

• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate: <20 ppm

Diet

• Omnivorous bottom feeder

• Feed a varied diet:

  • High-quality micro-pellets or crushed flakes

  • Frozen or live foods: baby brine shrimp, microworms

  • Fine powdered foods

• Feed small amounts once daily

Behavior & Compatibility

• Excellent for peaceful nano and community tanks

• Compatible with:

  • Small tetras, rasboras, and other nano fish

  • Peaceful shrimp and snails

  • Other small, peaceful community fish

• Avoid large or aggressive fish

Aquarium Setup

• Soft sand substrate essential for barbel health

• Well-planted tanks with hiding places

• Gentle water flow

• Clean, well-maintained water

Care Level

• Easy

• Very hardy and beginner-friendly

Lifespan

• 3–5 years with proper care

Special Notes

• Tiny size perfect for nano aquariums

• Unique behavior of swimming in mid-water like tetras

• Attractive silver body with black horizontal stripe

• Very active and social when kept in groups