Saltwater Aquarist

Peppered Cory

(Corydoras paleatus)

Peppered Cory (Corydoras paleatus) in a freshwater aquarium

Species Description…

Scientific Name: Corydoras paleatus
Common Name: Peppered Cory
Species Group: Corydoras
Tank Type: Community
Care Level: Beginner
Temperament: Peaceful
Diet Type: Omnivore
Role in Aquarium: Bottom Dweller
Max Fish Length: 2.8 (inches)
Min Aquarium Size: 18 (gallons)
Native Range: Southern Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay and Argentina.
Min Temperature: 72°F
Max Temperature: 79°F
Min pH: 6
Max pH: 7
Min GH: 0 dGH
Max GH: 12 dGH
Min Group Size:
Breeding: Easy
Lifespan: years

Overview

  • The Peppered Cory (Corydoras paleatus) is a hardy, mottled gray-green catfish and one of the first cories kept in aquariums. [UNVERIFIED]
  • Native to southern Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay and Argentina.
  • Grows to about 2.8 in (7 cm) standard length.

Feeding

  • An opportunistic omnivore. Accepts sinking pellets, tablets and small live and frozen foods.

Habitat

  • A tank with a base of 24 × 15 in (61 × 38 cm).
  • Sandy substrate for foraging.
  • Prefers slightly cooler water: 72–79°F (22–26°C), pH 6.0–7.0, GH 0–12.

Fish Care

  • Barbels can become infected in dirty gravel, so keep the substrate clean.

Compatibility

  • A peaceful catfish for small community tanks with tetras and dwarf cichlids.

Aquarium Behavior

  • Does best in a group. [UNVERIFIED] Keep at least 6.

Breeding

  • Typical cory spawning. Use at least two males per female in an 18 × 12 in (45 × 30 cm) breeding tank.