Peppered Cory

Peppered Cory (Corydoras paleatus)

Origin: South America
Size: 3 cm
Coloration: Mottled gray and brown body with a distinctive peppered pattern, often featuring an iridescent sheen that adds subtle coloration under the right lighting
Temperament: Peaceful and social
Compatibility: Well-suited for community tanks; best kept in groups of 5 or more with other small, peaceful species
Tank Size: Minimum 40 liters
Water Parameters: 20-25°C, pH 6.0-7.5, soft to moderately hard water
Diet: Omnivorous – Sinking pellets, algae wafers, live or frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp
Care Level: Easy
Breeding: Egg-layer – Females lay eggs on flat surfaces or plant leaves, and this species can be relatively easy to breed in the home aquarium
Lifespan: 5-7 years
Health Considerations: Hardy but sensitive to poor water quality; regular water changes and a clean environment are essential
Tank Setup: A soft substrate like sand is ideal to protect their sensitive barbels; provide ample hiding spots and gentle water flow
Fun Fact: The Peppered Cory is one of the oldest species of Corydoras kept in the aquarium hobby, prized for its hardiness and charming, busy nature at the bottom of the tank.