Albino Peppered Corydoras 3.5cm

Albino Peppered Corydoras

For the aquarists chasing, a unique and shimmering bottom-dwelling fish, the albino peppered corydoras is a great species to consider. The albino gene is a rare but naturally occurring fish that removes all the dark pigmentation on the fish resulting in a very different-looking fish from the original counterpart. They are far less common when compared to the normal peppered Corydoras and will add a lot of life to the bottom section of the aquarium. These albino peppered cories are also cold-water tolerant just like standard peppered cories whilst also offering the same amazing sand churning behaviours.

As their name suggests albino peppered corydoras carry the albino gene, this essentially makes the fish a ghostly pink colour from head to tail. What’s special about the albino peppered cories is that they still carry the iridescent hue that standard peppered Corydoras have, but in the albinos, it tends to be a lot more visible. The outlines of the patterning which naturally occur are mildly visible as well and even have minor colour differences which add some further depth. Just like any other Corydoras species the albino peppers constantly stir the substrate layer to look for food.

This behaviour ensures they are constantly keeping the substrate turned over and any debris in the water column, which can then be picked up by the aquarium filter. They are almost exclusively bottom-dwelling fish and are an awesome option to add some life to the bottom of the tank. These corydoras are not shy fish either since they were born and brought up in captivity. They are constantly active, making them a great and popular fish for the community and planted aquariums. These fish are also considered to be schooling catfish, in the wild, standard peppered cories are often seen in groups of a few hundred however in the home aquarium it is recommended to keep at least 4 or more.

An ideal school would be around 10 plus individuals to make them feel comfortable and to add some activity to the tank. Differentiating males and females is possible where the males are often smaller and narrower compared to the larger-bodied females. The best method to identify is to get a school of 4-6 Corydoras and let a pair naturally form. Females are often triggered to spawn after being fed high-quality food and a slight reduction in the temperature. The wild origin of the peppered corydoras is South America.

Tank Recommendations for your Albino Peppered Corydoras
As albino peppered corydoras reach around 6 cm as adults it is best to keep them in an aquarium with a minimum size of around 70 Liters. A larger aquarium will always be better due to their active behaviour and it also allows for the space to keep other tank mates. A sand substrate is best as coarser substrates like gravel often result in corydoras damaging their barbels. The albino peppered corydoras would look best against a lighter, more natural substrate to highlight the greens and blacks on this fish. They will also love plants in the aquarium and places for cover through the addition of driftwood or caves.

Suitable Tank Buddies
Albino peppered corydoras are an incredibly peaceful fish that can be kept in a massive range of community aquariums. They do not display any aggression even when breeding and make for a perfect addition even with sensitive or shy fish. The main two factors that should be considered are that these corydoras are almost exclusively a bottom-dwelling species which means that any super active or large top-dwelling fish may outcompete the corydoras for food. They are also a species that may be easily picked on by fin-nipping fish.

Usually Compatible
Community fish such as rams, tetras, angelfish, discus, rainbow fish, and many more.

Sometimes Compatible
Larger peaceful South American cichlids such as Uaru, Severums, and other fish may outcompete them as they are mostly bottom-dwelling fish. Tiger barbs and other fin nippers should be avoided as they will make short work of the fins on these fish.

Rarely Compatible
Large and aggressive species such as Oscars may prey on the Corydoras. This is especially important as Corydoras have spines on their pectoral fins like many catfish, this can result in both the corydoras and the predator fish’s death.

Feeding your Albino Peppered Corydoras
Just like any other corydoras these fish are very easy to feed. They will take a wide range of pellets, flakes, and frozen foods. Just like any fish though they should be fed a varied diet with a mix of different foods. The ideal diet would be a good quality micro slow-sinking pellet or crushed flake, supplemented with frozen bloodworms and even live foods like baby brine shrimp.