CompatibilityPygmy Corydoras is an ideal inhabitant for nano aquariums and peaceful small fish communities. Best neighbors include small tetras (neons, ember tetras), rasboras, nano-stomus, dwarf rainbowfish, small apistos, otocinclus, and shrimps (cherry, crystal, Amano). It is strictly not recommended to keep with large or aggressive fish (angelfish, gouramis, large cichlids, large catfish), which may perceive the pygmy as food. Also avoid active fin-nipping fish (e.g., black phantom tetras, Sumatran barbs), which may nip fins of small catfish. Keep in groups of at least 6–10 individuals.
Plant safetySafe
Plant-eating behaviourPygmy Corydoras do not eat live aquarium plants. They are omnivorous, with a natural diet including small crustaceans, insect larvae, worms, detritus, and a small amount of plant material. In the aquarium, plants are safe and even desirable: the fish like to rest on broad leaves (Echinodorus, Anubias, Cryptocoryne). When food is scarce, they may nibble tender parts of plants but do not cause significant damage.
Interaction with invertebratesGets along well with small freshwater shrimp (cherry, crystal, filter feeders) and snails. Cherry shrimp are even used to clean eggs from fungus during breeding. However, very small shrimp or their offspring may be perceived as prey by Corydoras pygmaeus, so caution is advised when keeping with miniature shrimp.
Incompatible groupsDo not keep with large and/or predatory fish capable of perceiving pygmies as food: large cichlids, angelfish (Pterophyllum), gouramis, large catfish, bettas. Also undesirable are active and noisy fish that will compete for food and intimidate small bottom fish. Avoid keeping with fish requiring high temperatures (above 28°C) or highly alkaline water. Large crayfish and crabs are also dangerous.
Reference illustration · may contain inaccuracies