Species profile
Peppered Corydoras
Hoplisoma paleatum
Peaceful
Easy care
80 L minimum aquarium
5–7 cm adult size
Bottom
Minimum group: 6
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Legacy 24–28°C range corrected; long-term warm tropical temperatures are inappropriate for this cooler-water cory.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
15–25 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH
2–18 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 6
Tank zone
Bottom
Territory level
None
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
1.5
Peaceful shoaler; keep six or more.
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
Yes
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
80 L
Minimum footprint
75 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Hoplisoma paleatum
Alternative names
Peppered Cory, Corydoras paleatus
Native range
Temperate/subtropical South America, principally Paraná–Paraguay and coastal drainages.
Natural habitat
Cooler clean streams and associated habitats. Fine sand, open foraging space and shaded cover suit the species.
Diet & feeding
Complete sinking foods plus frozen/live invertebrates.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Females are larger and rounder; males are slimmer with proportionally more pointed fins.
Breeding
Prolific cory-type egg layer; cooler water changes can trigger spawning and eggs are attached to surfaces.