Cory Catfish

Cory catfish also referred to as Corydoras, or armored catfish is a family of freshwater fish that are surprisingly tough. Fish are a common addition to tropical aquariums, such as community tanks.

Corydoras are adorable because they are easygoing and adaptable and, as the bottom-dwellers, they can leave the surroundings cleaner than they were before.

There are, however, numerous cory catfish types that vary in size and color. However, bronze Corydoras are most likely the most well-known.

This is why, in this article, we'll examine the top 5 cory catfish species you could think about if require new, easy to take care of, and tranquil bottom dwellers to your aquarium.

1.Bandit Cory (Corydorasmetae)

Bandit Cory’s has a different magnetism of its own. With that mysterious black band over his eyes, he has earned this demonstrative name for himself, which certainly has nothing to do with his nature! They are just as calm and quiet as the other members of their genus. An additional black stripe runs from the base of their tail to their very prominent dorsal fin, which looks somewhat spectacular. It is a minor member of the genus, and has marginally more specific temperature and pH requirements than some other species, making them less suitable for starters.

Maximum Size: 2 inches

Temperature Range: 72–79°F

pH: 6.5–7.0

Level of Care: Easy – Intermediate

Tankmates: Other smaller, peaceful schooling fish

2.Pygmy Cory (Corydoraspygmaeus)

This distinct species of Corydoras is the smallest in the subfamily. Being just 1 inch long at maturity, they make a great choice if one is looking for a school of catfish in a small aquarium. Even a 50-liter tank is enough to hold 6 of these, as long as the aquarium has sufficient surface area. On the other hand, it is important that they be kept only with other peaceful species. Bountiful tankmates, with a probing habit of living in the middle of the water, can make them susceptible to other inhabitants of that layer.

Maximum Size: 1.3 inches

Temperature Range: 70–78°F

pH: 6.5–7.5

Level of Care: Intermediate

Tankmates: Be sure to accommodate only the peaceful ones.

3.Panda Cory (Corydoras panda)

As the prettiest member of the family, this kori variety is adorned with dark spots around their eyes, giving them their popular name. This catfish requires a bit more skill from the fisherman as they prefer a softly lit environment and a carefully designed bottom. An abundance of hiding places and preferably some thick vegetation will protect this shy catfish and make it feel safe and at ease. It is friendly in its kind and also appreciates the close company of prankster loaches. To keep them in excellent health, regular servings of bloodworms or brine shrimp will help them look their best.

Maximum Size: 2.5 inches

Temperature Range: 68–79°F

pH: 5.8–7.0

Level of Care: Intermediate

Tankmates: Other gentle schooling species

4.Three Stripe Cory (Corydorastrilineatus)

Often mislabeled in stores as Julie Corey, this type of Corey is available for far more than Julie Corey. True Julies have more distinctive spots while three-striped corys have continuous, twisted markings with three stripes. This is a very beautiful catfish in itself and certainly deserves generous praise. This is another very less demanding cory variety, requiring only a basic minimum level of care. But in return, the substrate of the tank will remain up to the optimum clean level as these play an important role as a living vacuum cleaner in a community aquarium.

Maximum Size: 2.5 inches

Temperature Range: 72–78 °F

pH: 5.8–7.2

Level of Care: Easy

Tankmates: Other peaceful community species.

5.Skunk Cory (Corydorasarcuatus)

The Skunk Corey Cat adds a splash of drama to any home aquarium. Also known as the Sands Cory Cat, Corydorasarcuatus is active, yet peaceful, especially when kept in small schools. Although other members of the Corydoras genus boast black stripes on their eyes and down the back, the back stripe of this skunk cory cat splits just before the tail and runs down to color the lower edge of the caudal fin.. An unusual behavioral trait of this species, as with other Corys, is their sporadic sudden dash to swallow air at the surface of the water. This evolutionary rediscovery helps them survive in stagnant waters during periods of low rainfall in their natural habitat. This is normal and should not be a cause for concern about water quality.

Maximum Size: 2 inches

Temperature Range: 72–79°F

pH Range: 6.8–7.5

Level of Care: Easy

Tankmates: Other peaceful community species.

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