Peppered Coydoras
Peppered Coydoras

Peppered Corydoras Catfish - Corydoras paleatus 2cm

from £3.99

The Corydoras paleatus, commonly known as the Peppered Cory or Peppered Catfish, is one of the most popular and widely kept Corydoras species, native to the shallow waters of Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay.

These robust little catfish are characterised by their mottled pepper-and-salt colouration, with a greenish-grey to bronze body adorned with dark spots and blotches that create an attractive speckled pattern. Growing to approximately 5-7 centimetres in length, they are amongst the hardier Corydoras species and can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures than many tropical fish, making them highly adaptable to various aquarium setups.

Their armoured bodies and lively personalities make them endlessly entertaining to observe as they busily scour the bottom of the tank.

As with all Corydoras, Peppered Corys are gregarious fish that thrive in groups of six or more, where they'll actively school together and exhibit natural foraging behaviour.

These peaceful bottom-dwellers are tireless scavengers, constantly sifting through the substrate with their barbels in search of food, though they should be provided with quality sinking pellets or wafers alongside frozen treats such as bloodworms and brine shrimp.

They appreciate a soft sandy or smooth gravel substrate to protect their sensitive barbels, along with planted areas and hiding spots amongst driftwood or rocks.

Notably hardy and long-lived, Peppered Corydoras can live 15-20 years with proper care including regular water changes, making them an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists seeking reliable, characterful bottom-dwellers for community aquariums.

Qty:

The Corydoras paleatus, commonly known as the Peppered Cory or Peppered Catfish, is one of the most popular and widely kept Corydoras species, native to the shallow waters of Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay.

These robust little catfish are characterised by their mottled pepper-and-salt colouration, with a greenish-grey to bronze body adorned with dark spots and blotches that create an attractive speckled pattern. Growing to approximately 5-7 centimetres in length, they are amongst the hardier Corydoras species and can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures than many tropical fish, making them highly adaptable to various aquarium setups.

Their armoured bodies and lively personalities make them endlessly entertaining to observe as they busily scour the bottom of the tank.

As with all Corydoras, Peppered Corys are gregarious fish that thrive in groups of six or more, where they'll actively school together and exhibit natural foraging behaviour.

These peaceful bottom-dwellers are tireless scavengers, constantly sifting through the substrate with their barbels in search of food, though they should be provided with quality sinking pellets or wafers alongside frozen treats such as bloodworms and brine shrimp.

They appreciate a soft sandy or smooth gravel substrate to protect their sensitive barbels, along with planted areas and hiding spots amongst driftwood or rocks.

Notably hardy and long-lived, Peppered Corydoras can live 15-20 years with proper care including regular water changes, making them an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists seeking reliable, characterful bottom-dwellers for community aquariums.

Scientific name: Corydoras paleatus

Common name: Peppered Cory, Peppered Catfish, Mottled Cory

Adult Size: 2 to 2.5 inches (5 to 6.5 cm)

Temperature Range: 72 to 79°F (22 to 26°C)

pH Range: 6.0 to 7.5

Compatibility: Generally peaceful and can be kept with other peaceful fish. They are social and do best in groups of at least 6 individuals. They are excellent community fish and get along well with other small, peaceful species.

Minimum Tank Size: 50 Litres, but a larger tank is better for a group

Originates from: South America, specifically the La Plata River basin in Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay

Ideal Substrate: Fine sand or small, smooth gravel. They enjoy sifting through the substrate for food, so a soft substrate is essential to prevent damage to their barbels.

Ideal Tank Mates Suggestions: Peaceful fish such as Tetras, Guppies, Mollies, Platies, and other small, community fish. They can also coexist with other bottom-dwelling fish like other Corydoras species and small catfish.

Fish to avoid: Aggressive or large fish that might see the Peppered Cory as food, and species that are overly boisterous or competitive for food.

Diet: Omnivorous; they will eat a variety of foods including high-quality sinking pellets, live food (such as bloodworms and brine shrimp), and frozen food. They also enjoy algae and can help keep the tank clean. Provide a diet rich in both plant and animal matter.

Breeding: Breeding the Peppered Cory in captivity is relatively easy and can be achieved with the right conditions. They are egg layers and typically scatter their eggs on the substrate or on the leaves of plants. Providing a well-structured tank with plenty of hiding spots and clean water conditions can encourage breeding. A slight increase in water temperature and a change in water parameters can trigger spawning.