Overview
The pygmy corydoras is one of the tiniest catfish in the world, barely as long as your thumbnail. It comes from the Madeira River area of the Amazon basin in South America. Unlike most catfish that stay glued to the bottom, pygmy corys often hover and swim in the middle of the tank in a big shimmering group, which makes them look a little like a school of tiny minnows.
These little fish wear a suit of bony armor plates along their sides instead of scales, which is why corydoras are sometimes called armored catfish. They are gentle, playful, and love company. Kept in a big group they feel safe and stay out in the open, sifting the sand for food with their whiskery mouths and darting up to the surface for a quick gulp of air.
| Care level | Easy |
| Adult size | 1 in (2.5 cm) |
| Lifespan | 3-4 years |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Min. tank | 10 gal (38 L) |
| Temperature | 72-79 F (22-26 C) |
| pH | 6.2-7.4 |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Schooling | Yes, groups of 6 or more |
One of the smallest catfish alive
At about one inch long, the pygmy cory is a true mini-fish. Its tiny size means it can live comfortably in smaller tanks where bigger catfish would never fit.
Swimming in the middle, not the bottom
Most corys stick to the floor, but pygmy corys love to hover and swim in midwater. A big group drifting together looks like a living, shimmering cloud.
A gulp of air from above
Pygmy corys can breathe air. Every so often one will dash to the surface, grab a bubble of air, and gulp it down using a special part of its gut that works a bit like a lung.
Safety in numbers
These shy fish feel brave only in a crowd. A group of at least six, and ideally ten or more, keeps them calm, active, and out where you can enjoy watching them.
Gentle sand sifters
They nose through soft sand looking for tiny bits of food. A soft sandy bottom protects their delicate whiskers, which can wear down on rough, sharp gravel.
Fun facts
- The pygmy corydoras is only about one inch long.
- It comes from the Madeira River in the Amazon basin.
- It can gulp air at the surface and breathe it through its gut.
- Instead of scales it wears rows of bony armor plates.
- Unlike most catfish, it loves to swim in the middle of the tank.
Frequently asked questions
How many pygmy corys should I keep?
Keep at least six, and ten or more is even better. In a big group they feel safe and swim out in the open.
Why does my pygmy cory dash to the top?
It is grabbing a gulp of air. This is completely normal behavior and nothing to worry about.
Do they need sand or gravel?
Soft sand is best. It protects their delicate whiskers, which sharp gravel can wear away over time.
Can they live with other fish?
Yes, as long as the tankmates are small and peaceful. Big fish might see these tiny corys as a snack.
