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Pygmy Corydoras, lat. Corydoras pygmaeus


Order: Siluriformes;
Family: Callichthyidae;
Genus: Corydoras;
Species and synonyms: Pygmy Corydoras (Corydoras pygmaeus, Pygmy Corydoras, Pygmy Catfish, Caracha).

GBIF: Corydoras pygmaeus Knaack, 1966

Pygmy Corydoras (lat. Corydoras pygmaeus) is a species of ray-finned fish from the order Siluriformes, family Callichthyidae, genus Corydoras. One of the smallest and most popular representatives of armored catfish in the aquarium hobby.

Distribution. The natural range of the Pygmy Corydoras covers rivers and streams of South America, mainly in the Amazon River basin in Brazil and Colombia. The fish prefer slow-moving or stagnant waters with sandy or muddy bottoms, often found in small rivers, streams and floodplain lakes with dense vegetation.

Care requirements. The Pygmy Corydoras is a dwarf catfish that grows up to 2.5–3 cm in the aquarium. To keep a school (minimum 6–8 specimens), an aquarium of at least 40 liters with a length of 40 cm is recommended. It is important to keep them in schools, as they are social fish and feel comfortable only in a group. Optimal water parameters: temperature 22–26°C, hardness 5–15 dGH, pH 6.0–7.5. Filtration with moderate flow, aeration and weekly water changes of 20–25% are necessary. Sandy or fine gravel substrate, driftwood, stones and shelters are placed at the bottom. Plants are planted in the substrate, creating dense thickets.

Pygmy Corydoras are omnivorous, feeding on small invertebrates, worms and organic debris in the wild. In the aquarium, their diet should consist of high-quality sinking flakes, pellets, live and frozen foods (bloodworms, tubifex, brine shrimp, daphnia). It is important to vary the diet and provide protein-rich food. Feed should be 1–2 times a day in small portions.

In the aquarium, Pygmy Corydoras are active in the lower water layers, but often rise to the middle and upper layers, which distinguishes them from other corydoras. They are peaceful and get along well with any peaceful fish. Recommended tankmates include tetras, rasboras, danios, dwarf barbs, gouramis, other corydoras and any small peaceful fish. It is not recommended to keep them with large or aggressive fish that may bully them.

Breeding in home aquariums is possible under proper conditions. Pygmy Corydoras are egg-laying fish, spawning on plant leaves, driftwood or glass. They reach sexual maturity at 6–8 months. To stimulate spawning, water changes with fresh, cool water and increased aeration are recommended. Males and females form temporary pairs. Eggs incubate for 3–5 days, fry begin to swim after 3–4 days. Fry are fed infusoria, Artemia nauplii and fine dry food.

The Pygmy Corydoras gets its name from its miniature size and characteristic coloration: the body is silvery-grey or golden with a dark longitudinal stripe running from head to tail. Males have brighter coloration and are slimmer, females have a fuller body. It is one of the most active and mobile corydoras, often swimming in the water column. Life expectancy is 5–8 years.