What size tank does a Pygmy Cory need?

A Pygmy Cory (Corydoras pygmaeus) requires a minimum tank size of 30 litres. As they can grow up to 2.5 cm, a larger aquarium is always better to ensure they thrive.

What are the ideal water parameters for Pygmy Cory?

Keep your Pygmy Cory in water between 22.0–26.0°C with a pH of 6.0–7.5. They prefer a hardness of 2–15 dGH. Stable parameters are more important than hitting exact numbers.

What are good tank mates for Pygmy Cory?

Good companions include Small tetras, Rasboras, Shrimp, Otocinclus. Avoid keeping them with Large or aggressive fish. The Pygmy Cory is generally peaceful, so choose tank mates accordingly.

What should I feed my Pygmy Cory?

The Pygmy Cory is an omnivore. Micro sinking pellets, frozen daphnia, baby brine shrimp, crushed flake. Feed small amounts twice daily and include variety for optimal health and colour.

How long does a Pygmy Cory live?

With proper care, a Pygmy Cory can live up to 3 years in captivity. Good water quality, a balanced diet, and appropriate tank mates all contribute to a long, healthy life.

Corydoras pygmaeus

Pigmy Corydoras — Pygmy Cory (Corydoras pygmaeus)

Name: Pigmy Corydoras — Pygmy Cory (Corydoras pygmaeus)
Brand: Tropical Fish Co
SKU: K014
Price: 2.99 GBP
Availability: PreOrder

Beginner Friendly

Peaceful

£2.99In Stock

Tiny schooling catfish that actively swims mid-water unlike most corydoras. Available now with live arrival guarantee and fast UK delivery.

CallichthyidaeCatfish cory plecoEasy CareFishLive FishPeacefulsite:tropical-fish-coTropical Fish

Care at a Glance

Scientific Name

Corydoras pygmaeus

Adult Size

2.5 cm

Lifespan

3 years

Care Level

Easy

Temperament

Peaceful

Temperature

22–26°C

pH Range

6–7.5

Hardness

2–15 dGH

Minimum Tank

30L

Diet

Micro sinking pellets, frozen daphnia, baby brine shrimp, crushed flake

Water Parameters

Maintain these water conditions for optimal health and vibrant colors

Temperature

22–26°C

22°CIdeal Range26°C

pH Level

6–7.5

6Ideal Range7.5

Water Hardness

2–15 dGH

2 dGHIdeal Range15 dGH

The Pygmy Cory (Corydoras pygmaeus) is tiny schooling catfish that actively swims mid-water unlike most corydoras. Originating from South America (Madeira River basin), this peaceful species is rated as easy care level and can live up to 3 years with proper husbandry.

Care at a Glance

Scientific Name	Corydoras pygmaeus
Family	Callichthyidae
Origin	South America (Madeira River basin)
Care Level	easy
Temperament	peaceful
Adult Size	2.5 cm
Minimum Tank Size	30 litres
Temperature	22.0–26.0°C
pH Range	6.0–7.5
Water Hardness	2–15 dGH
Diet	Micro sinking pellets, frozen daphnia, baby brine shrimp, crushed flake
Lifespan	3 years
Tank Region	bottom
Group Size	8+

Origin & Natural Habitat

The Pygmy Cory hails from South America (Madeira River basin). Easy care; 22-26°C, pH 6.0-7.5. School of 8+. Unusually active mid-water swimmer. Sandy substrate preferred.

Tank Setup & Water Parameters

Provide a minimum of 30 litres for your Pygmy Cory. Adults reach approximately 2.5 cm, so plan accordingly. Maintain water temperature between 22.0–26.0°C with a pH of 6.0–7.5 and hardness of 2–15 dGH. This species primarily occupies the bottom region of the aquarium. Recommended group size: 8+.

Feeding Guide

The Pygmy Cory is an omnivore. Micro sinking pellets, frozen daphnia, baby brine shrimp, crushed flake. Feed small portions twice daily for optimal health and colouration.

Compatible Tank Mates

Good companions for the Pygmy Cory include Small tetras, Rasboras, Shrimp, Otocinclus, Other small corys. Avoid housing with Large or aggressive fish. You might also consider species such as Olga Cory, Banded Cory, Peppered Cory from our collection.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co?

At Tropical Fish Co, every fish is carefully selected and shipped with care across the UK. We offer live arrival guarantee, expert advice, and competitive prices. Order your Pygmy Cory today and enjoy next-day delivery to your door.

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Moved by UK carriers licensed to handle live animals

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Hand-packed with oxygen bags, poly box, heat pack

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Replacement or refund — just tell us the same day

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How your fish gets to you

Dispatched Tuesday, delivered Wednesday — every order tracked and insured.

Dispatched on Tuesdays by a UK courier legally licensed to carry live animals. You’ll get a tracking number on dispatch morning and live updates through the afternoon.
Hand-packed in an insulated poly box with oxygen bags and (Oct–Apr) 40-hour heat packs. £20 flat rate covers any number of fish.
Covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee. Tell us the same day your fish arrive with a short unboxing video — replacement or refund, no arguments. Why we need a video
You need to be home.Live fish cannot be left on doorsteps or with neighbours — it kills them. Please only order for days when someone will be in to sign.

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