Caresheets - Pygmy Cory () - Corydoras pygmaeus

Pygmy Cory
Alternative Name(s):
Scientific Name(s): Corydoras pygmaeus
Category: Tropical
Difficulty:
Maximum Size: 3cms
Minimum Tank Volume: 45 litres
Minimum Tank Size: 18" x 12" x 12"
Water Temperature Range: 22-28°C
Water pH Range: 6.4-7.4
Water Hardness Range: 2-15 dGH

General Information:	The Pygmy Cory is an endearing little catfish, only just over 1 inch long and native to the Rio Madeira, Brazil. Like all Cories these are cute and very entertaining. They need to be in groups of at least 6 - more is better, and unlike most other Cories they spend quite a bit of time swimming in the mid-water levels of the tank in a group as well as resting together on flat surfaces.
Tank Requirements:	Soft to medium-hard water, pH ideally around neutral. The tank should be well-planted and lighting somewhat subdued with plenty of bogwood and roots for them to swim around. Sandy substrate to protect barbels when searching for food.
Diet Requirements:	Due to their small size and tiny mouths, food should be small enough for them to eat. Small sinking catfish pellets, Tetra Prima, ground flake and small live or frozen foods such as baby brine shrimp.
Compatibility:	Can be kept in community with other peaceful, smaller fish. Larger tank-mates will intimidate the Pygmy Cory and prevent it feeding. Suitable tank-mates include Apistogrammas, small Tetras, Rasboras.
Recommendations:	Larger groups of these (10 or more) can be very entertaining. They gain courage with numbers and will school tightly giving an impressive display.
Common Problems:	No real issues other than ensuring suitably peaceful tank mates and adequate access to suitable food.
Similar Species:	Corydoras hastatus (Dwarf Cory), with which the Pygmy is often confused.
Sexing:	When viewed from above the females are fuller-bodied and more rounded than males and often slightly larger.
Breeding:	They are egg-layers and breed best if 2 males are kept per female, but the fry can be hard to rear as they are very tiny. Parents and eggs should be separated after spawning.

Author(s): Fishlady | Photo: Fishlady | Views: 20147

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