Bronze Corydoras
Corydoras aeneus · family Callichthyidae
Also: Bronze Cory
Parameters
- Temperature
- 22–28 °C
- pH
- 6–7.5
- Hardness
- 5–19 °dGH
- Tank volume
- from 80 L
- Maximum size
- up to 7.5 cm
- Group size
- min 6, ideal 8
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Swimming zone
- Bottom
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Lifespan
- 5–10 years
Description
The bronze corydoras is a peaceful bottom-dwelling catfish that lives in groups. It's known for 'gulping air' at the surface — a normal behavior thanks to its supplementary intestinal breathing.
Use a fine, smooth substrate: corydoras constantly 'dig' through sand with their barbels, and sharp edges can injure them.
Care
Substrate
Sand or fine smooth gravel. Sharp or angular gravel abrades the barbels and leads to infections.
Group
At least 6 individuals. In smaller groups they become shy and less active.
Feeding
Sinking pellets for bottom feeders, bloodworm, brine shrimp, pieces of blanched vegetables. Feed in the evening, after the upper layers have eaten.
Compatibility
- Ideal
- Ideal
- Good
- Ideal
- Good
- Caution
FAQ
- Why does the corydoras dart up to the surface?
- It's normal. Corydoras use intestinal respiration — they gulp atmospheric air. Occasional surface trips are fine; very frequent ones can signal low oxygen in the water.
Goldie editorial team
Practising aquarists with a combined 30+ years of experience · Biologists and editors, fact-checking against FishBase and Seriously Fish · Every piece is reviewed by a qualified ichthyologist before publication
Scientific board — ichthyologists and veterinarians
Ichthyologists and veterinarians with university degrees · Reference FishBase, Seriously Fish and peer-reviewed literature · Sign every reviewed article with their credentials shown
Sources
- FishBase: Corydoras aeneus · FishBase · 2026-05-22
- Seriously Fish: Corydoras aeneus · Seriously Fish · 2026-05-22