Julii Cory Catfish

The Julii Corydoras (Corydoras julii) is a beautifully patterned catfish species known for its intricate network of black lines and spots against a silver-gray background. Often confused with the similar Three Stripe Cory, the true Julii Cory features a more spotted than lined pattern. These peaceful, social bottom-dwellers are active scavengers that add both visual interest and constant movement to the aquarium floor. Hardy and easy to care for, Julii Corydoras are excellent choices for community aquariums.

Care Sheet – Julii Corydoras (Corydoras julii)

Temperament

• Peaceful, social schooling fish

• Best kept in groups of 6 or more for natural behavior

Adult Size

• 2–2.5 inches

Minimum Tank Size

• 20 gallons for a small school

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 72–79°F

• pH: 6.0–7.5

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

• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate: <20–30 ppm

Diet

• Omnivorous bottom feeder

• Feed a varied diet:

  • High-quality sinking pellets or wafers

  • Frozen or live foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp

  • Occasional vegetable matter

• Feed small amounts once daily

Behavior & Compatibility

• Excellent for peaceful community tanks

• Compatible with:

  • Small tetras, rasboras, and other peaceful fish

  • Other Corydoras species

  • Small gouramis and peaceful shrimp

• Avoid aggressive or large predatory fish

Aquarium Setup

• Soft sand substrate preferred to protect barbels

• Planted tanks with open bottom areas

• Smooth rocks and driftwood for hiding

• Clean, well-oxygenated water

Care Level

• Easy

• Very hardy and beginner-friendly

Lifespan

• 5–8 years with proper care

Special Notes

• Intricate spotted pattern (true Julii have spots rather than connected lines)

• Often confused with Corydoras trilineatus (Three Stripe Cory)

• Very active and social when kept in groups

• Excellent clean-up crew for leftover food