Peppered Cory

Peppered Cory (Corydoras Paleatus)

The Peppered Cory, also known as the Blue Leopard Corydoras, Mottled Corydoras, and Peppered Catfish, is a popular species native to the Río de la Plata Basin, spanning across Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Suriname, and Uruguay. This species is known for its distinctive pale olive to tan body coloration, adorned with a network of dark green-black markings, making each individual unique. Its fins are relatively pale, with a dark splotch on the first few rays of the dorsal fin and a sprinkling of fine spots on the caudal fin. The Peppered Cory also has an adipose fin with a spot at the upper tip. Cultivated varieties exist in albino and a gold variety sometimes referred to as golden paleatus. Adult Peppered Cory’s can reach 2 to 3 inches.

Affectionately known as Cory Cats, Corydoras are small, peaceful, bottom-dwelling scavengers who are beloved by aquarists for their active personalities and helpful housekeeping skills. Their social nature and playful antics make them a joy to watch. Corydoras get along well with a variety of tank mates and are generally non-aggressive, making them a great addition to community tanks with other peaceful fish. Corydoras are known for their schooling behavior and are best kept in groups of 5-6 individuals of the same species.

Ideal tankmates for Corydoras include small to medium-sized, peaceful fish occupying the tank's middle and upper levels. These could include fish like tetras, rasboras, guppies, mollies, swordtails, angelfish, hatchetfish, and peaceful barbs. Non-aggressive bottom dwellers such as loaches and otocinclus can also be good companions, provided the tank is large enough to give all bottom dwellers their own space. Avoid housing Corydoras with aggressive, territorial, or larger fish that might see them as food or compete with them for food at the bottom of the tank, such as cichlids.

What do Peppered Corydoras catfish eat? The Peppered Cory is omnivorous, primarily foraging for food along the bottom of their habitat. They relish live foods but also do well with frozen, flake, granules, and even pellet or tablet foods. Live foods can include bloodworms, brine shrimp, tubifex, and white worms. Sinking pellets or tablets are a good way to ensure they get their fair share of food.

In terms of habitat, Corydoras thrive in well-oxygenated water with moderate flow. They prefer tanks that mimic their natural habitat, which includes riverbeds with a soft sandy substrate where they can forage for food. The tank should be furnished with plenty of hiding spots using driftwood, rocks, caves, and live plants that provide relief from the light. Choose sturdy plants, as Corydoras are known to dig and may uproot delicate plants. Corydoras catfish can be paired with sturdy aquatic plants such as Java Fern, Anubias, and Amazon Sword to create a natural and visually appealing aquarium environment. Floating plants are a good option, as the Peppered Cory prefers more subdued lighting.

Regarding their water parameters, taking care of Corydoras is easy because they are quite adaptable and hardy. The minimum recommended aquarium size is 20 gallons for a school of 5 cory catfish. A community aquarium should be at least 30 gallons plus 1 gallon for every extra 1 inch of fish. The ideal pH range is between 5.5-7.5, and the hardness should be within 2-12 dGH. The temperature should be maintained between 72-79°F (22-26°C).

As with all tropical fish, Corydoras need consistent water parameters. Sudden or inconsistent swings in pH, temperature, and dGH readings can result in stress and health issues.