Pygmy Corydoras (Corydoras pygmaeus)

The Pygmy Corydoras (Corydoras pygmaeus) is a unique and highly sought-after species that breaks the mold of traditional Corydoras. Unlike most bottom-dwelling Corys, these tiny fish are known for their mid-water schooling behavior, bringing movement not just to the substrate — but throughout the entire aquarium.
At Magnolia Aquatics Company, our Pygmy Corydoras are home-raised in our fishroom, producing healthy, well-adjusted fish that are already thriving in aquarium environments. These are active, social fish that are feeding confidently and ready to settle in immediately.
🏅 Premium Home-Raised Stock
• Bred & raised in our home fishroom
• Healthy, active, and consistently feeding
• Strong schooling behavior and activity
• Quality over quantity — always
About the Species
Native to South America, Corydoras pygmaeus is one of the smallest Corydoras species available in the hobby. Their size, combined with their unusual swimming behavior, makes them ideal for nano tanks and planted aquariums.
Unlike standard Corys that stay strictly on the bottom, Pygmy Corydoras will often school in the mid-water column, especially when kept in proper group sizes.
Color, Size & Presence
Pygmy Corydoras feature a sleek, minimal pattern with a horizontal stripe running along the body.
• Adult Size: ~1 inch
• Body Type: Small, streamlined catfish
• Coloration: Silver-gray with dark lateral stripe
• Visual Impact: Subtle individually — dynamic in groups
👉 Their real impact comes from movement — not size.
Behavior & Compatibility
This is where Pygmy Corydoras truly stand out.
• Peaceful and ideal for nano/community tanks
• Strong schooling behavior — must be kept in groups
• Frequently swim mid-water, not just the bottom
• Compatible with small, non-aggressive fish
👉 These behave more like a schooling tetra than a typical Cory.
Tank Requirements
Because of their size, setup matters:
• Temperature: 72–78°F
• pH Range: 6.0–7.5
• Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum (larger groups preferred)
• Substrate: Sand or smooth substrate
• Environment: Plants, cover, and open swimming space
They thrive in planted tanks where they feel secure enough to school openly.
Feeding
Pygmy Corydoras require appropriately sized food due to their small mouths:
• Crushed flakes or micro pellets
• Baby brine shrimp, microworms, or finely sized frozen foods
• Occasional live foods
They are active feeders but benefit from smaller, more frequent feedings.
Breeding Overview
Pygmy Corydoras can breed in aquariums with proper care:
• Egg layers often triggered by water changes
• Eggs placed on glass or plants
• No parental care — eggs can be raised separately
• Fry require very fine foods initially
Why Buy From Magnolia Aquatics Company?
We focus on raising fish the right way — not pushing volume.
Our Pygmy Corydoras are:
• Raised in stable, clean environments
• Properly fed and conditioned
• Selected for health, activity, and schooling behavior
When they arrive, they are ready to thrive — not recover.
Pygmy Corydoras bring constant movement, schooling behavior, and life to every level of your aquarium, making them one of the most unique and rewarding Cory species available.
Magnolia Aquatics Company — Where quality comes from home.