Salt & Pepper Corydoras
Corydoras habrosus
Animalia›Chordata›Actinopterygii›Callichthyidae
📍 Venezuela, upper Orinoco basin
One of the three 'dwarf' corydoras species, C. habrosus reaches just 3 cm (1.2 in) and has a distinctive row of dark blotches along its flanks. It is more active in the midwater than most corydoras and is ideal for nano planted tanks. Groups of 10+ will show confident, exploratory behaviour and make excellent companions for small shrimp.
Care Guide
Diet
Salt & Pepper Corydoras are omnivores that thrive on a varied diet of micro pellets, frozen daphnia, and cyclops. Feed small amounts once daily, ensuring food reaches the substrate where they forage. Supplement occasionally with blanched vegetables like zucchini to promote digestive health.
Behavior
These dwarf corydoras are more active in midwater than larger species, constantly sifting substrate and exploring their environment. They are peaceful, social fish that display confident, exploratory behavior in groups of 10 or more, making them ideal for planted nano tanks. They produce audible squeaking sounds when feeding or stressed.
Breeding
Breeding in captivity is possible but requires patience and specific conditions including cooler water (22-24°C), frequent water changes, and dense vegetation or spawning mops. Fry are tiny and require infusoria or liquid fry food for the first week before accepting micro pellets. Success rates are moderate for experienced aquarists.
Tank Mates
Similar water parameters and peaceful temperament; corydoras won't predate on adult shrimp
Small, peaceful fish with identical water requirements; occupy different tank zones
Peaceful and compatible; ensure adequate space as gouramis can be territorial
Similar size and peaceful nature; both are bottom feeders with complementary diets
Larger shrimp that won't be harmed; excellent algae control companion
Common Diseases
Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)
White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, rubbing against objects
Raise temperature to 28-29°C gradually, perform daily 25% water changes, use aquarium salt (1 tsp per 5 gallons) or ich medication; treat for 10-14 days
Fin Rot
Frayed or deteriorating fins, discoloration at fin edges, lethargy
Improve water quality with frequent changes, remove uneaten food, treat with antibacterial medication if severe; ensure substrate is clean to prevent bacterial buildup
Barbel Loss
Erosion or complete loss of barbels (whisker-like sensory organs)
Caused by poor water quality or abrasive substrate; improve water parameters, switch to fine sand substrate, ensure adequate nutrition with varied diet
Dropsy
Bloated appearance, scales standing out, lethargy, loss of appetite
Isolate affected fish, perform frequent water changes, feed high-quality foods; condition is often fatal; antibiotics may help if caught early
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Tanks keeping this 🐟
Kept by 2 hobbyistsCommunity tanks featuring Salt & Pepper Corydoras.
Quick Facts
- diet
- Omnivore – micro pellets, frozen daphnia, cyclops
- schooling
- 10+ recommended
- tank size
- 10 gallons minimum
- temperament
- Peaceful – excellent for nano tanks
Water it likes
- ph
- 6.0–7.5
- hardness
- 2–12 dGH
- temperature
- 72–79°F (22–26°C)