Nanus Corydoras

The nanus corydoras carries horizontal patterns of irregular, wavy dark lines and spots on its silvery–gold body. Adults reach 4–4.5 cm. It is an active species among corydoras: besides foraging on the bottom, it also swims as a group in midwater. In appearance and behavior it resembles C. elegans from the Amazon; the two are often confused.

• At least 54–60 liters for a group of 8–12.
• Fine sand substrate; open swimming areas between plant clusters.
• 22–26°C, soft to moderately hard, well-oxygenated water; it likes gentle flow.
• It should go into a mature aquarium; a 25% water change every week.

Sinking granules, crumbled tablets, frozen brine shrimp, daphnia and small bloodworms. Choose food sized for its small mouth; make sure some of it reaches the bottom.

Peaceful, active and social. It is bolder in a large group and stays out in the open during the day. It does not harm shrimp.

Good companions: small tetras, rasboras, pencilfish, otocinclus, dwarf shrimp, other small corydoras.

Avoid: large fish it would fit into the mouth of, cichlids that claim the bottom, fast and greedy food competitors.