Species profile
Elegant Corydoras
Gastrodermus elegans
Peaceful
Moderate care
70 L minimum aquarium
4–5 cm adult size
Bottom–mid
Minimum group: 8
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Current accepted combination is Gastrodermus elegans. Maintain in a social group and feed directly rather than treating it as a cleaner.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–26 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH
1–12 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–mid
Territory level
None
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
0.6
Small peaceful social catfish. Compared with many corys it spends appreciable time just above the substrate, especially when confident in a group.
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
4–7 years
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
70 L
Minimum footprint
60 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Gastrodermus elegans
Alternative names
Corydoras elegans, Elegant Cory, Elegant Corydoras
Native range
Upper Amazon basin across parts of Brazil, Ecuador, Bolivia, Colombia and Peru.
Natural habitat
Quiet tributaries and marginal waters with sand, leaf litter, roots and vegetation.
Diet & feeding
Small invertebrates and detrital/plant material; provide fine sinking foods with frozen/live microfoods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature females are broader and fuller-bodied; males remain slimmer.
Breeding
Typical Corydoradinae egg spawning with adhesive eggs placed on plants, glass or décor; adults give no care.