Species profile
Smudge Spot Corydoras
Hoplisoma simile
Peaceful
Easy care
80 L minimum aquarium
3.5–4.5 cm adult size
Bottom
Minimum group: 8
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Small social Corydoradinae; use a larger group than the old six-fish minimum and fine sand.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–26 °C
pH
5.5–7.5
GH
2–20 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: 8
Tank zone
Bottom
Territory level
None
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
0.7
Peaceful group fish that spends more time in the open when maintained with numerous conspecifics.
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
80 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Hoplisoma simile
Alternative names
Smudge Spot Corydoras, Smudge Spot Cory, Corydoras similis
Native range
Madeira River basin, Brazil.
Natural habitat
Fine sand, leaf litter/wood or planted cover and clean, well-oxygenated water with access to the surface.
Diet & feeding
Sinking pellets/tablets plus frozen/live worms and crustacean foods; feed deliberately rather than relying on scraps.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Females become larger and noticeably broader; males are slimmer.
Breeding
T-position spawner; adhesive eggs are placed on glass, leaves or other surfaces. Adults do not guard the spawn.