Corydoras metae

Family: Callichthyidae

Corydoras metae — a Callichthyidae from South America. Reaches 3.8–5.5 cm; keep at 21–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
21–26 °C
pH
6–8
GH hardness
2–25 dGH
Adult length
3.8–5.5 cm
Minimum tank
36 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful bottom-dweller
Origin
South America

Species overview

A Callichthyidae species native to South America: Corydoras metae lives bottom-dwelling over sand. Peaceful bottom-dweller. Adults reach 3.8–5.5 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Corydoras species we profile, alongside Corydoras aeneus, Corydoras paleatus, Corydoras panda.

Native biotope

Habitat
Slow streams over sand
Flow
Gentle
Dissolved O₂
Moderate

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Fine sand
Hardscape
Driftwood and broad-leaf shade
Plants
Hardy low-light species

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Keep in groups of 5 or more
Diet
Omnivore; sinking foods
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Females rounder
Breeding method
Eggs deposited on glass or plants

Frequently asked questions

Is Corydoras metae easy to keep?

A moderate-level species: peaceful bottom-dweller; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.

What temperature and water chemistry does Corydoras metae need?

Set the heater to 21–26 °C and avoid swings. pH 6–8, GH 2–25 dGH suit it.

How big does Corydoras metae get, and what tank size?

Full size is 3.8–5.5 cm. Minimum tank: 36 L, with open swimming space along its bottom-dwelling habits.

What does Corydoras metae eat?

Omnivore; sinking foods. It forages naturally over fine sand, so let some food reach the bottom.

Can Corydoras metae live with other fish?

Peaceful bottom-dweller. Recommended tankmates: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Avoid Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Corydoras metae come from?

Comes from South America: slow streams over sand. Expect gentle and moderate.

How does Corydoras metae breed?

Eggs deposited on glass or plants. Females rounder.