Peppered Corydoras Paleatus 3cm Catfish

Overview

The Peppered Cory (Corydoras paleatus) is a stocky armoured catfish with a marbled olive and black pattern that shimmers green in good light. It comes from the cooler rivers of Uruguay, southern Brazil and Argentina, so tolerates unheated aquaria. Peaceful and tirelessly busy, it suits beginners and temperate community tanks.

• Adult Size: Around 6–7 cm (2.4–2.8 in); females larger
• Lifespan: 5–10 years

Origin

• Native to: Lower Paraná basin, Uruguay, southern Brazil, Argentina
• Habitat: Rivers, tributaries, pools and small lakes over sand

Feeding

• Diet: Omnivorous, bottom forager
• Preferred Foods: Sinking pellets, catfish granules, frozen bloodworm, Daphnia, Cyclops, mosquito larvae
• Feeding Habits: Feed once or twice daily with sinking food; do not rely on leftovers

Tank Mates

• Best with: White clouds, danios, tetras, rasboras, dwarf cichlids, other corys
• Avoid: Large, aggressive or fin-nipping species

Aggression & Behaviour

• Temperament: Peaceful and gregarious
• Territoriality: None

Experience Level

• Difficulty: Beginner
• Challenges: Barbels erode on coarse gravel; dislikes sustained high temperatures

Water Parameters

• Water Type: Freshwater, soft to moderately hard, cool-tolerant
• Temperature: 18–25°C (64–77°F)
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Hardness: 0–12 dGH
• Flow: Slow to moderate
• Tank Size: Minimum 70 litres for a group of six

Final Notes

Keep in groups of five or more on soft sand; they sift constantly but still need proper sinking food. Happy at room temperature, they are a good choice for unheated tanks. They gulp air at the surface, so leave a gap beneath the cover. Males often show taller dorsals; females are larger and rounder. A cooler water change triggers easy spawning, with eggs laid on glass and plants. Watch for their curious winking eye movement.