Species profile
Pygmy Corydoras
Gastrodermus pygmaeus
Peaceful
Easy care
45 L minimum aquarium
2–3 cm adult size
Bottom–mid
Minimum group: 10
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Tiny, highly social cory that spends more time in midwater than most relatives. Keep a large group over fine sand.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–26 °C
pH
6–7.2
GH
Up to 15 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 10
Tank zone
Bottom–mid
Territory level
None
Predation risk
None
Bioload factor
0.4
Peaceful schooling catfish; larger groups are visibly more confident and active.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
Yes
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
45 L
Minimum footprint
45 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Gastrodermus pygmaeus
Alternative names
Pygmy Cory, Pygmy Corydoras, Corydoras pygmaeus
Native range
Madeira River basin, Brazil.
Natural habitat
Calm or gently flowing vegetated South American waters with soft substrate and cover.
Diet & feeding
Small benthic/midwater micro-predator; feed tiny sinking foods and frozen/live invertebrates rather than expecting it to live on scraps.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Females are larger, deeper and broader when viewed from above; males remain slimmer.
Breeding
Typical cory-type spawning; females carry a small clutch between pelvic fins and attach adhesive eggs to surfaces/plants.