About Pygmy Cory

The Pygmy Cory is one of the smallest catfish species in the world, reaching only about 1 inch in length. These tiny bottom-dwellers are perfect for nano tanks and are often active in the middle water column rather than staying strictly on the bottom like larger corydoras. Native to Brazil, they have a silver body with a black stripe running along their side. Due to their small size, they need special care regarding filtration and tank mates, requiring very small foods and protection from larger fish.

Care Guide

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

Pygmy Corys are perfect for nano tanks but need gentle filtration.

Essential Setup:

  • 10+ gallons minimum
  • Sand or very fine gravel
  • Gentle sponge filter (avoid strong flow)
  • Plants for security
  • Driftwood and leaves

Water Quality

  • Temperature: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
  • pH: 6.0-7.5
  • Water Hardness: Soft (2-10 dGH)
  • Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
  • Nitrate: <15 ppm

Feeding

Require tiny foods due to small size:

  • Micro pellets: Crushed or specific micro foods
  • Powdered foods: Spirulina powder
  • Frozen cyclops: Perfect size
  • Infusoria: For fry

Important: Standard pellets are too large; crush or use specialized nano foods.

Behavior & Compatibility

Unusual for corydoras:

  • Mid-water swimmers: Often swim in water column
  • Schooling: Large groups (10+) show best behavior
  • Tiny: Can be eaten by even small fish
  • Active: Constant movement in groups

Tank Mate Restrictions:

  • Only with fish under 2 inches
  • Chili rasboras, ember tetras, shrimp
  • Any fish over 2 inches may eat them

Mid-Water Swimming

Unlike other corys:

  • School in water column: Unique behavior
  • Suspended in current: Enjoy gentle flow
  • Bottom time: Less than other corys

Breeding

Can be bred:

  • Small tank with spawning mop
  • Cool water trigger
  • Very tiny eggs
  • Feed fry infusoria, vinegar eels

Special Considerations

  • Gentle filtration: Sponge filter recommended
  • Tiny foods: Essential for health
  • Large schools: 10+ fish minimum
  • Small tank mates: Size critical

Tips for Success

  • Keep in large schools (10+)
  • Use gentle sponge filtration
  • Feed appropriate micro foods
  • Choose tiny tank mates only
  • Enjoy their mid-water swimming behavior

Compatible Tank Mates

🐠 Micro Fish
🐠 Small Shrimp
🐠 Tiny Tetras
🐠 Chili Rasboras