Corydoras Pygmaeus - Wild 1.5cm

Corydoras Pygmaeus
 

For aquarists chasing a proper nano fish, then the pygmy corydoras is the way to go. This is a species that only reaches 3 cm, is a really good schooler and is a perfect consideration for a nano-planted tank since these fish will add a great amount of life and still leave the aquascape as the main highlight. Pygmy corydoras isn’t the best beginner fish because they are quite sensitive and their incredibly small mouth can make them a bit difficult to feed without proper preparation. If these fish are given their own dedicated aquarium, they will totally thrive.

There isn’t too much in terms of colour when it comes to Pygmy Corydoras but they make up for it with their adorable look and how well they spend time in the mid-water column, unlike other corydoras species. Pygmy Cories have an off-white colour which is broken up by a series of jet-black stripes that run from the nose to the tail. The name of these fish is an ashy grey colour which looks like it has a metallic roof pattern but this is actually the armour plating the fish have under their skin. Part of the sensitivity with these Corydoras is that they do not have scales but more so tight skin. With a fish of this size, it means that toxins, salt, medications and even external parasites will affect the pygmy corydoras at a much higher level compared to other fish. They are also quite shy but once these fish settle in, they will make for a great eye-catcher. 

Breeding the pygmy corydoras is possible and can actually make for a challenging but rewarding project. These fish essentially have to be kept in a breeding tank for success and this generally involves a small 30-liter aquarium with a high plant density through the use of moss or guppy grass. In some instances aquarists will use spawning mops made out of the acrylic yard, once their plants or mops are in the tank, the fish must be fed regularly with protein-rich foods like micro worms to induce breeding. The parents should not predate on the babies as long as there are enough places to hide. These will make for a great breeding project for breeders chasing more experience. 

Tank Recommendations for your Corydoras Pygmaeus

The pygmy corydoras will only reach a maximum size of 3cm which means they can actually be small than a full-grown shrimp. Keeping these fish in a smaller aquarium may actually be of benefit to them because a smaller system allows these nano fish to find food much easier compared to larger systems. A minimum tank volume of 30 litres would be great for a school of 6-10 Pygmy Corydoras which is a must-have requirement. Aquasoil or fine sand will make for a great substrate along with the use of driftwood, dense plant growth will make sure the fish feel more secure thus keeping them out in the open more. 

Suitable Tank Buddies

The Pygmy Corydoras remain small and can easily be predated on by fish. It is usually recommended to keep these fish alone as they can be very easily outcompeted however similar natured nano fish will be fine. 

Usually Compatible

Shrimp, celestial pearl danios, emerald rasboras, emerald green rasbora, and similar nano fish species. 

Sometimes Compatible

Guppies, rummy nose tetras, leopard danio, and other nano fish may not directly predate on the pygmy corydoras but have a high risk of out-competing them during feeding or just stressing the cories out. 

Rarely Compatible

Dwarf cichlids, tiger barbs, goldfish, and other species would readily prey on the pygmy corydoras 

Feeding your Pygmy Corydoras

Feeding Pygmy Corydoras is quite similar to feeding shrimp. These fish have extremely small mouths and will need incredibly small foods. Fry powder, micro worms or a crushed flake will make for a great feeding option as these foods will sink but also spend a lot of time suspended in the water column which is perfect for these fish to feed on.