peppered corydoras (Corydoras paleatus)

Family: Callichthyidae

A peaceful omnivore callichthyidae from Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil — beginner-friendly.

Care parameters

Water temperature: 18–23 °C
pH: 6–8
GH hardness: 5–19 dGH
Adult length: 4.6–6.6 cm
Minimum tank: 66 L
Water layer: Bottom; rests and forages low; keep 6+
Difficulty: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Origin: 东亚淡水水系

Species overview

Corydoras paleatus is a Callichthyidae. In the aquarium it stays peaceful. Plan on 4.6–6.6 cm of adult fish at 18–23 °C. Related profiles: Corydoras aeneus, Corydoras panda, Corydoras sterbai.

Native biotope

Habitat: Clear streams, rivers and still waters
Flow: Moderate flow
Dissolved O₂: Average oxygen needs

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate: Fine sand
Hardscape: Driftwood, water-worn stones and shelters that mimic the native biotope
Plants: Hardy plants on hardscape; keep the floor open

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling: Keep 6+; larger groups settle better
Diet: Omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety
Recommended tankmates: Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs
China-Bitterling — Similar size and water needs
Acanthorhodeus chankaensis — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with: Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk
Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism: Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied
Breeding method: Egg-scatterer over fine plants; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes

Frequently asked questions

Is peppered corydoras easy to keep?

Rated easy — peaceful.

What temperature and water chemistry does peppered corydoras need?

Aim for 18–23 °C. Unheated or lightly heated; guard against summer heat; 18–23 °C recorded range.

How big does peppered corydoras get, and what tank size?

Full size is 4.6–6.6 cm. Minimum tank: 66 L, with open swimming space along its bottom; rests and forages low; keep 6+ habits.

What does peppered corydoras eat?

Omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.

Can peppered corydoras live with other fish?

Peaceful. Recommended tankmates: Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs, China-Bitterling — Similar size and water needs, Acanthorhodeus chankaensis — Similar size and water needs. Avoid Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk, Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage.

Where does peppered corydoras come from?

Native to 东亚淡水水系, where it lives in clear streams, rivers and still waters. Moderate flow; Average oxygen needs.

How does peppered corydoras breed?

In the aquarium: egg-scatterer over fine plants; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes. Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied.