Pygmy Cory

The Pygmy Cory is a tiny, silver-bodied catfish with a dark horizontal stripe. Unlike many larger Corys, it often hovers in the lower and middle water levels and perches on leaves, making a lively group a charming feature in a planted nano aquarium.

Fish details

• Identity: Commonly known as Corydoras pygmaeus (Pygmy Cory).
• Adult size: Approximately 3 cm.
• Water type: Freshwater.
• Temperament: Peaceful and social.
• Recommended aquarium: 10 gallons or larger for a dedicated group; more space is recommended for a mixed community.
• Group size: Preferably 10 or more Pygmy Corys; their confidence improves in a larger group.
• Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C).
• pH: 6.4–7.4; soft to moderately soft water is preferred.

Aquarium setup and care

Use a mature planted aquarium with gentle filtration, smooth sand, and shaded resting places. Broad leaves and fine plants offer cover at different heights. Protect filter intakes and keep space available for their short midwater swims.

Keep ammonia and nitrite at zero, perform regular partial water changes, and remove uneaten food. Corys require their own balanced diet; leftover food and algae are not sufficient.

Diet and feeding

Offer very small sinking foods, finely crushed pellets, frozen cyclops, daphnia, or baby brine shrimp. Their tiny mouths cannot manage many foods intended for larger Corys, so observe feeding closely.

Compatibility

Choose tiny, peaceful companions such as suitable small rasboras or tetras. Avoid fish large enough to swallow them or fast feeders that leave them hungry. Adult dwarf shrimp and snails can be suitable companions, but baby shrimp may occasionally be eaten.

This is a genuinely small Cory species, yet a group still needs a fully cycled, maintained aquarium and regular feeding.

Ordering information: Offered sizes and prices are shown in the selection menu; they are separate from adult-size guidance. Sizes are approximate, and appearance varies. Please call Las Vegas Exotic Fish at (702) 685-5100 to confirm availability or discuss your aquarium.