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Similis Corydoras
Corydoras similis
Animalia›Chordata›Actinopterygii›Callichthyidae
📍 South America
Similis corydoras is a small, attractively spotted species with a distinctive dark spot at the base of the tail fin. Peaceful and active, it mixes well with other calm community fish and is hardier than many of its relatives.
Care Guide
Diet
Similis corydoras are omnivores that thrive on a varied diet of sinking pellets, frozen bloodworms, and algae wafers. Feed small amounts once daily, offering only what they can consume in 2-3 minutes. Supplement occasionally with blanched vegetables like zucchini to ensure balanced nutrition.
Behavior
These peaceful, bottom-dwelling catfish are highly social and must be kept in groups of at least 6 to exhibit natural schooling behavior and reduce stress. They are most active during dawn and dusk, spending much of their time sifting through substrate in search of food. They rarely interact aggressively with other species and are excellent for community tanks.
Breeding
Breeding Similis corydoras in captivity is difficult and rarely achieved by hobbyists. Successful breeding requires pristine water conditions, cooler temperatures (around 20°C), and a well-established tank with plenty of vegetation. Fry are extremely small and require infusoria or liquid fry food for the first weeks.
Tank Mates
Similar water parameters and peaceful temperament; occupy mid-water column
Peaceful schooling fish with identical temperature and pH requirements
Peaceful bottom-dweller; similar size and water needs; non-competitive
Peaceful invertebrate; may occasionally be nipped but generally compatible
Peaceful mid-water dweller with overlapping temperature range
Peaceful bottom-dweller; may compete for food but generally compatible
Common Diseases
Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)
White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, rubbing against substrate
Raise temperature gradually to 28°C, perform daily 25% water changes, use ich medication as directed; improve water quality
Fin Rot
Frayed or deteriorating fins, discoloration at fin edges, lethargy
Perform 50% water change immediately, improve water quality, use antibacterial medication if severe; ensure adequate filtration
Barbel Erosion
Shortened or missing barbels, difficulty locating food
Improve substrate quality (use sand instead of sharp gravel), enhance water quality with frequent changes, provide nutritious food
Bacterial Infection
Ulcers, open sores, cloudy eyes, loss of appetite
Perform 50% water change, use broad-spectrum antibiotic medication, isolate if possible; maintain pristine water conditions
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Quick Facts
- diet
- Omnivore – sinking pellets, bloodworms, wafers
- lifespan
- 5–8 years
- max size
- 4.5 cm (1.8 in)
- tank size
- 15 gallons minimum
- school size
- 6+
- temperament
- Peaceful, schooling
Water it likes
- ph
- 6.0–7.5
- ammonia
- 0 ppm
- nitrate
- <20 ppm
- hardness
- 2–12 dGH
- temperature
- 72–79°F (22–26°C)