Longfin Peppered Corydoras 3.5cm

Longfin Peppered Corydoras

For the aquarists chasing, a flashy, flamboyant, and shimmering bottom-dwelling fish, the long-fin peppered corydoras is a great species to consider. This is a man-made strain of the standard and already beloved peppered Corydoras which sports long flowing fins. 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 long-fin Cories are also coldwater tolerant just like standard peppered Cories whilst also offering the same amazing sand churning behaviours.

As their name suggests long fin peppered Corydoras have an amazing range of peppering through their body, this array of colour ranges from metallic silvers, to emerald greens, and light blues. They are also far lighter compared to other Corydoras species which makes them a true eye catcher. The main aspect of these fish though is the selectively bred long-fin strain which is especially pronounced in Corydoras. The dorsal fin alone stands quite tall and can be almost the entire length of the fish alone. Peppered cories are also great because they can be kept in temperatures as low as 22 degrees making them a great species to add to cooler water aquariums. 

Just like any other corydoras species the long-fin peppers constantly stir the substrate layer in order 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 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 really 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 Longfin Peppered Corydoras

As long-fin 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 long-fin peppered corydoras would look best against a lighter, more natural substrate to really 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

Longfin peppered corydoras are an incredibly peaceful fish that can be kept in an absolutely 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 which should be considered are that these corydoras are almost exclusively 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 absolutely 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 Longfin 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. 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 or black worms or even live foods like baby brine shrimp or micro worms.