**The Ultimate Guide to Pygmy Corydoras: Care, Breeding, and Species Guide**

Introduction

Pygmy corydoras are a fascinating and popular group of small, bottom-dwelling catfish species that are native to South America. Their tiny size, active nature, and vibrant colors make them a favorite among aquarium hobbyists. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about pygmy corys, from selecting the right species to providing optimal care and breeding them successfully.

Choosing the Right Pygmy Cory Species

There are approximately 20 recognized species of pygmy corys, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular species include:

Providing Optimal Care

Pygmy corys are relatively easy to care for, but they do have specific needs. Here's a detailed breakdown of their care requirements:

Tank Requirements

• Tank size: 10-20 gallons for a small group of 5-8 fish
• Substrate: Soft sand or fine gravel
• Decorations: Live plants, driftwood, and rocks
• Water parameters:
  • pH: 6.0-7.5
  • Hardness: 5-15 dGH
  • Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)

Diet

• Food types: Frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and commercial catfish pellets
• Feeding frequency: Twice a day, offering a small amount each time
• Additional considerations: Provide a calcium supplement to ensure strong bones

Compatibility

• Suitable tankmates: Small, peaceful species such as neon tetras, guppies, and kuhli loaches
• Avoid: Aggressive or large fish that may prey on pygmy corys

Breeding Pygmy Corys

Breeding pygmy corys is a rewarding experience, but it requires some preparation and patience. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Conditioning: Feed the breeding pair a high-quality diet for several weeks.
2. Water conditions: Reduce tank temperature to 75-78°F (24-26°C) and increase water hardness to 10-12 dGH.
3. Spawning: Introduce a breeding mop or spawning substrate. The female will lay eggs in the crevices.
4. Hatching: Eggs will typically hatch within 3-5 days.
5. Fry care: Remove the eggs or fry to a separate tank and feed them infusoria or baby brine shrimp.

Stories and Lessons

Story 1: A group of pygmy corys were introduced to a community tank with larger, more aggressive fish. Unfortunately, several of the pygmy corys were eaten. Lesson: Pygmy corys should only be kept with compatible tankmates.

Story 2: A pygmy cory breeder noticed that his fish were not breeding despite providing optimal water conditions. After investigating, he discovered that the pH of the water was too high. Lesson: Water parameters must be closely monitored and maintained for successful breeding.

Story 3: A pygmy cory keeper neglected to change the substrate in his tank regularly. As a result, the substrate became compacted and anaerobic, leading to health problems for the fish. Lesson: Substrate cleaning is essential for maintaining a healthy pygmy cory tank.

Pros and Cons of Pygmy Corys

Pros:

• Tiny size makes them suitable for even small tanks
• Active and entertaining to observe
• Relatively easy to care for
• Great for community tanks

Cons:

• Can be shy and easily stressed
• Require specific water parameters
• Breeding can be challenging

FAQs

1. How many pygmy corys should I keep together?

A group of 5-8 pygmy corys is a good starting point.

2. How long do pygmy corys live?

With proper care, pygmy corys can live for 5-7 years.

3. What is the difference between pygmy corys and dwarf corys?

Pygmy corys are smaller than dwarf corys, typically reaching only 0.6-1 inch in length.

4. Can pygmy corys be kept in a planted tank?

Yes, pygmy corys love live plants and will benefit from the added hiding places and oxygenation.

5. How do I prevent pygmy corys from jumping out of the tank?

Provide a tight-fitting lid or use floating plants to reduce the risk of jumping.

6. Can pygmy corys eat algae?

Yes, pygmy corys will eat algae, but they are not primarily algae eaters.

7. How often should I test my pygmy cory tank water?

Test your water at least once a month to ensure optimal water parameters.

8. What is the best way to clean a pygmy cory tank?

Use a gravel vacuum to remove debris and perform partial water changes regularly to keep the water clean.

Call to Action

Embrace the fascinating world of pygmy corys! Whether you're a seasoned aquarist or a newcomer to the hobby, these tiny fish offer a unique and rewarding experience. By following the comprehensive care guide outlined in this article, you can successfully care for and breed pygmy corys, bringing a touch of South American charm to your aquarium.