Corydoras pygmaeus 1–1.5 cm Wild (Corydoras pygmaeus) is a miniature bottom-dwelling catfish from the upper Amazon basin. Our fish are wild-caught and measure 1–1.5 cm; as adults they reach about 2.5–3 cm. This species is part of our freshwater range and is ideal for quiet, planted nano and community aquariums.

Behavior and care

Corydoras pygmaeus is highly social and should always be kept in a group of at least 8–10 individuals. Unlike many other corydoras, “pygmaeus” often forms a small midwater shoal, not just staying on the bottom when it feels secure.

A tank of 40–60 litres is suitable for a group, provided it is well planted, stable and gently filtered. Use a soft, fine sand substrate to protect their delicate barbels. Add starter bacteria when cycling the tank and monitor water values with our water tests. Avoid large, boisterous tankmates.

Diet

This dwarf cory is an omnivorous benthic micro-predator. It enjoys sinking micro-pellets, finely crushed flake, bottom tablets and small frozen foods such as finely chopped brine shrimp, daphnia and cyclops.

Feed 2–3 small meals per day, ensuring food reaches the substrate. Supplement with our foods for micro fish and bottom feeders. Do not rely solely on leftovers from other fish.

Water parameters

• Ideal temperature: 22 – 26 °C
• pH: 6.0 – 7.5
• GH: 2 – 10 °dGH
• KH: 1 – 6 °dKH
• Conductivity: 50 – 250 µS

This species comes from soft, slightly acidic to neutral water and is sensitive to nitrite spikes and high nitrate levels. Before adding the fish, treat tap water with an appropriate water conditioner. Provide gentle but efficient filtration and maintain the tank using maintenance tools and weekly water changes.

Decor and environment

Use a fine sand substrate dotted with roots and smooth stones for shelter. Add plenty of live plants (stems, mosses, carpets) and optionally floating plants to diffuse the light.

A moderate lighting system and dense planting will make these tiny corydoras feel secure and encourage midwater shoaling behaviour.

Care sheet

AquaBota tip

For thriving Corydoras pygmaeus Wild, provide a soft sand substrate, a large group and excellent water quality.
Stability = success: monitor nitrite and nitrate regularly with our water tests and perform small, frequent weekly water changes.

Shipping and delivery of live fish

Fish are shipped with great care in insulated, purpose-designed packaging to ensure their safety during transport.

Delivery methods

• France Express (secure home delivery in France, Belgium and Luxembourg)
• In-store pickup in Sombreffe (Belgium)

Shipping schedule

• Order cut-off: every Monday at 10:00.
• France: shipments on Monday or Tuesday, depending on the destination department, for delivery between Tuesday and Thursday.
• Belgium and Luxembourg: shipments on Monday and Tuesday for delivery between Tuesday and Wednesday.