Why Are My Cory Catfish Dying? 8 Powerful Ways to Save Them!

1. Master the Art of Water Chemistry

Invest in a high-quality water testing kit
Test parameters weekly: ammonia (0 ppm), nitrites (0 ppm), nitrates (<20 ppm)
Maintain pH between 6.5-7.5
Keep temperature stable between 74-78°F
Use water conditioner to remove chlorine and heavy metals
Perform 25-30% water changes bi-weekly

Key Action: Create a water testing schedule and log results to track patterns.

2. Upgrade Your Substrate Strategy

Replace sharp gravel with fine sand substrate (0.1-1mm grain size)
Choose rounded aquarium sand specific for bottom dwellers
Maintain 1.5-2 inch substrate depth
Clean substrate monthly using a gravel vacuum
Watch for food particles trapped in substrate
Consider adding beneficial bacteria supplements

Key Action: Switch to sand substrate if using gravel to protect their sensitive barbels.

3. Perfect Your Feeding Protocol

Feed small portions 2-3 times daily
Offer variety: sinking pellets, frozen foods, live foods
Include vegetables like zucchini and spinach
Remove uneaten food after 2-3 minutes
Feed in different spots to prevent competition
Use feeding dishes to keep food contained

Key Action: Create a feeding schedule and rotate food types throughout the week.

4. Optimize Tank Setup

Minimum 20-gallon tank for a small group
Install efficient filtration system
Add air stones for additional oxygenation
Create hiding spots with caves and driftwood
Plant heavily with live or silk plants
Maintain moderate water flow

Key Action: Map your tank layout to ensure sufficient swimming and hiding spaces.

5. Build the Perfect Social Structure

Keep groups of 6 or more corydoras
Match same species together when possible
Choose peaceful tank mates
Provide enough space per fish (2-3 gallons each)
Monitor group dynamics
Maintain proper male-to-female ratios (2:1)

Key Action: Document fish numbers and observe group behavior daily.

6. Implement Disease Prevention Protocol

Quarantine new fish for minimum 2-4 weeks
Observe daily for signs of illness
Keep hospital tank ready
Stock essential medications
Learn to identify common diseases
Practice proper tank hygiene

Key Action: Create a quarantine protocol document and follow it strictly.

7. Master Stress Management

Reduce bright lighting or provide shade
Minimize tank disruptions
Keep water parameters stable
Provide adequate hiding places
Maintain consistent feeding times
Avoid overcrowding

Key Action: Create a stress-reduction checklist and monitor fish behavior.

8. Establish Emergency Response Plan

Keep emergency supplies ready
Have backup equipment available
Know local fish veterinarians
Document emergency procedures
Monitor water parameters closely
Have isolation tank prepared

Key Action: Create an emergency response kit and procedure manual.

Tracking Table for Health Monitoring

Parameter	Optimal Range	Daily Check	Weekly Check	Monthly Check
Temperature	74-78°F	✓	✓	✓
pH	6.5-7.5		✓	✓
Ammonia	0 ppm		✓	✓
Nitrites	0 ppm		✓	✓
Nitrates	<20 ppm		✓	✓
Behavior	Normal	✓	✓	✓
Eating	Regular	✓	✓	✓
Physical Condition	Healthy	✓	✓	✓

Common Causes of Cory Catfish Deaths

Poor Water Quality

Water quality is perhaps the most critical factor affecting cory catfish health. These sensitive fish require pristine water conditions to thrive. Common water quality issues include:

High ammonia levels (above 0 ppm)
Elevated nitrite levels (above 0 ppm)
Excessive nitrate concentrations (above 20 ppm)
Inappropriate pH levels (outside 6.5-7.5 range)
Temperature fluctuations (outside 72-78°F)

Regular water testing and maintenance are essential for preventing water quality-related deaths.

Improper Tank Setup

Cory catfish have specific habitat requirements that, when not met, can lead to stress and mortality:

Insufficient tank size (minimum 20 gallons for a small group)
Inappropriate substrate (sharp gravel can damage their barbels)
Lack of hiding places and cover
Poor filtration system
Inadequate oxygen levels

Stress Factors

Various stressors can significantly impact cory catfish health:

Overcrowding
Aggressive tank mates
Frequent changes to tank environment
Bright lighting without shaded areas
Transportation shock
Poor acclimation practices

Water Parameter Requirements

Optimal Water Conditions

Here’s a detailed breakdown of ideal water parameters for cory catfish:

Parameter	Ideal Range	Critical Range
Temperature	74-78°F	70-82°F
pH	6.5-7.5	6.0-8.0
Ammonia	0 ppm	<0.25 ppm
Nitrite	0 ppm	<0.25 ppm
Nitrate	<20 ppm	<40 ppm
Water Hardness	5-10 dGH	3-15 dGH
Oxygen Levels	>6 mg/L	>4 mg/L

Testing and Maintenance

Regular testing is crucial for maintaining optimal water conditions.

Test water parameters weekly
Perform 25-30% water changes bi-weekly
Clean substrate monthly
Replace filter media as recommended
Monitor temperature fluctuations

Disease and Health Issues

Though they are resilient fish, Cory catfish can nevertheless suffer with health issues depending on their surroundings or treatment. Knowing common diseases and ways of prevention guarantees their long-term survival.

Common Diseases

Ich (White Spot Disease)
This parasitic infection appears as tiny white spots on the fish’s body and fins. Symptoms include rubbing against surfaces and rapid gill movement. It’s caused by poor water quality or introducing infected fish.
Fin Rot
Usually connected to bacterial infections or stress from dirty water, fin rot creates ragged or discoloured fins. Untreated, it can aggravate and cause extreme tissue damage.
Bacterial Infections
Among the symptoms include bodily redness, bloating, or sores. Many times resulting from accidents or inadequate water quality, these diseases expose the fish to dangerous pathogens.
Fungal Infections
Showing up as white, cotton-like growths, fungal infections usually follow other medical problems or traumas. They do best in unclean tanks with inadequate filtration.
Internal Parasites
Internal parasites including worms or protozoa induce weight loss, tiredness, and unusual swimming. Usually, they originate from either new fish or infected food.
Red Blotch Disease
Fish with this disorder have red, irritated areas on their bellies. Untreated it can be lethal; it is connected to bacterial infections, stress, or inadequate tank cleanliness.

Disease Prevention

Implementing proactive care measures greatly reduces the risk of disease:

Quarantine New Fish:
Always quarantine new fish for 2–4 weeks to prevent introducing diseases to your main tank. This step helps detect and address potential issues early.
Maintain Clean Water Conditions:
Maintaining optimal parameters (pH 6.5–7.5, temperature 72–78°F) together with regular water changes and appropriate filtration help to establish a healthy environment that discourages infections.
Provide Proper Nutrition:
Provide a balanced meal including premium sinking pellets and sporadic treats including brine shrimp or bloodworms. A good diet strengthens the immune system of fish.
Avoid Overfeeding:
Overfeeding leads to uneaten food, which decays and pollutes the water. Feed only what they can consume in a few minutes.
Monitor Fish Behavior Daily:
Watch for changes in behavior, appetite, or appearance. Early detection of issues increases the chance of successful treatment.
Use Appropriate Medications:
If diseases occur, treat the affected fish promptly with suitable medications. Ensure the treatment aligns with the specific condition for best results.

Nutritional Requirements

Proper Diet

High-Quality Sinking Pellets

Essential Characteristics:
- High protein content (35-40%)
- Multiple protein sources
- Essential vitamins and minerals
- Easily digestible ingredients
- Appropriate size for species
- Quick-sinking formula
Recommended Brands and Types:
- Bottom feeder specific pellets
- Catfish formula tablets
- Micro pellets for smaller species
- Veggie-enriched varieties
- Color-enhancing formulas

Live Foods

Bloodworms:
- Cultured vs wild-caught
- Feeding frequency: 2-3 times weekly
- Portion control important
- Rich in protein
- High in iron
Brine Shrimp:
- Live adult or nauplii
- Gut-loading benefits
- Feeding techniques
- Nutritional enhancement
- Storage requirements
Other Live Options:
- Daphnia
- Grindal worms
- White worms
- Mosquito larvae
- Blackworms

Frozen Foods

Storage and Preparation:
- Proper thawing methods
- Portion control
- Vitamin enrichment
- Storage temperature
- Expiration monitoring
Types and Benefits:

Daphnia:
- High calcium content
- Easy digestion
- Natural behavior stimulation
Tubifex Worms:
- High protein content
- Good for conditioning
- Energy-rich
Other Options:
- Frozen bloodworms
- Arthropods
- Krill
- Copepods

Vegetables

Preparation Methods:
- Blanching process
- Correct portion size
- Serving temperature
- Removal timing
- Storage techniques
Recommended Vegetables:

Zucchini:
- Rich in vitamins
- Easy to prepare
- Good texture
Spinach:
- High iron content
- Mineral-rich
- Easily digestible
Other Options:
- Green peas
- Cucumber
- Lettuce
- Carrots

Feeding Schedule

Daily Routine

Time	Food Type	Amount	Duration
Morning	Staple Pellets	Small portion	2-3 minutes
Afternoon	Varied Diet	Medium portion	2-3 minutes
Evening	Protein-rich	Small portion	2-3 minutes

Weekly Meal Plan

Monday:
- Morning: Sinking pellets
- Evening: Frozen bloodworms
Tuesday:
- Morning: Bottom feeder tablets
- Evening: Blanched vegetables
Wednesday:
- Morning: Sinking pellets
- Evening: Live brine shrimp
Thursday:
- Morning: Catfish wafers
- Evening: Frozen daphnia
Friday:
- Morning: Sinking pellets
- Evening: Live bloodworms
Saturday:
- Morning: Bottom feeder tablets
- Evening: Blanched vegetables
Sunday:
- Morning: Sinking pellets
- Evening: Mixed frozen foods

Portion Control

Amount Guidelines:
- 2-3 minutes consumption time
- All fish should get access
- Consider group size
- Account for other tank mates
- Watch for overfeeding
Monitoring:
- Observe eating patterns
- Check for leftovers
- Monitor substrate
- Watch fish behavior
- Track growth rates

Special Feeding Considerations

Breeding Conditioning:
- Increase protein intake
- More frequent feedings
- Live food emphasis
- Vitamin supplements
- Temperature adjustments
Young Fish:
- More frequent meals
- Smaller portions
- Higher protein content
- Easily digestible foods
- Growth monitoring
Senior Fish:
- Easier to digest foods
- Regular feeding times
- Smaller portions
- Vitamin supplements
- Special attention to access

Social and Environmental Needs

Group Dynamics

Optimal Group Size and Composition

Minimum group size: 6-8 individuals
Ideal group size: 8-12 for 30+ gallon tanks
Same species grouping preferred
Male to female ratio: 2-3 females per male
Consider tank size when determining group size
Maximum group density: 1 cory per 3-5 gallons

Species Matching

Same Species Groups:
- Better social interaction
- Natural shoaling behavior
- Improved breeding success
- Reduced stress levels
- More natural behavior patterns
Mixed Species Considerations:
- Similar size species only
- Compatible temperaments
- Similar environmental needs
- Matching activity levels
- Consider color patterns

Space Requirements

Swimming Zones:
- Bottom layer primary territory
- Mid-water occasional visits
- Open areas for foraging
- Rest areas near plants
- Social gathering spaces
Territory Allocation:
- 3-5 gallons per fish
- Multiple feeding areas
- Separate resting zones
- Clear swimming paths
- Adequate exploration space

Behavioral Monitoring

Normal Behaviors:
- Active foraging
- Group swimming
- Regular social interaction
- Periodic resting
- Natural breeding activities
Warning Signs:
- Isolation from group
- Aggressive behavior
- Excessive hiding
- Irregular swimming patterns
- Reduced social interaction

Tank Environment

Substrate Selection

Sand Specifications:
- Grain size: 0.1-1mm
- Depth: 1.5-2 inches
- Smooth texture
- Natural coloration
- Even distribution
Substrate Maintenance:
- Regular gentle stirring
- Monthly partial replacement
- Debris removal
- Bacterial colony support
- pH stability monitoring

Plant Setup

Live Plants

Recommended Species:
- Cryptocoryne varieties
- Java Fern
- Anubias species
- Amazon Sword
- Vallisneria
- Dwarf Sagittaria
Planting Strategy:
- Dense background coverage
- Mid-ground clusters
- Foreground carpeting
- Leave open swimming lanes
- Create natural boundaries

Artificial Plants

Selection Criteria:
- Soft materials
- Natural appearance
- Stable anchoring
- Easy cleaning
- Durable construction
Arrangement:
- Mimic natural layout
- Create distinct zones
- Ensure stability
- Maintain flow paths
- Allow easy maintenance

Hiding Spots and Caves

Natural Decor

Driftwood:
- Multiple pieces
- Various sizes
- Smooth surfaces
- Stable positioning
- Creates natural caves
Rocks:
- Rounded edges
- Different sizes
- Stable stacking
- Create overhangs
- Form natural barriers

Artificial Decor

Cave Types:
- Ceramic structures
- PVC pipes
- Commercial decorations
- DIY structures
- Multi-entrance hideouts
Placement Strategy:
- Multiple access points
- Different height levels
- Scattered throughout tank
- Near plant groups
- Away from strong currents

Water Flow Management

Zone	Flow Rate	Purpose
Feeding Areas	Low	Easy food access
Rest Areas	Minimal	Comfortable resting
Open Areas	Moderate	Natural movement
Surface	Medium	Oxygen exchange
Filter Output	Adjustable	Circulation control

Lighting and Shade

Lighting Setup:
- 8-10 hours daily cycle
- Gradual transitions
- Multiple intensity zones
- Plant growth support
- Natural spectrum
Shade Creation:
- Floating plants
- Tall background plants
- Overhanging decor
- Surface breaks
- Strategic hardscape

Acclimatization and Introduction

Proper Acclimation Protocol

Initial Temperature Matching

Float sealed bag for 15-20 minutes
Keep lights dimmed to reduce stress
Avoid direct bright light exposure
Ensure bag is secure and level
Monitor bag temperature with thermometer
Record starting and ending temperatures

Water Parameter Adjustment

Initial Testing:
- Test source water parameters
- Compare with tank parameters:
  - pH
  - GH/KH
  - TDS
  - Temperature
  - Ammonia levels
Drip Acclimation Process:
- Set up drip line system
- Adjust to 2-4 drops per second
- Run for 45-60 minutes minimum
- Double water volume in bag
- Monitor fish stress levels

Behavior Monitoring Checklist

Watch for signs of stress:
- Rapid breathing
- Erratic swimming
- Color changes
- Staying motionless
- Unusual gill movement
Document behavior changes
Note response to water changes
Observe group dynamics
Check for signs of disease

Parameter Testing Schedule

Parameter	Before Transfer	During Acclimation	After Release
Temperature	✓	Every 5 mins	✓
pH	✓	Every 15 mins	✓
TDS	✓	Every 15 mins	✓
Ammonia	✓	At 30 mins	✓
GH/KH	✓	Once	✓

Common Acclimation Mistakes

Rushing the Process

Time Requirements:
- Minimum 1 hour total process
- Temperature matching: 15-20 minutes
- Water parameter matching: 45-60 minutes
- Observation period: 15-20 minutes
Proper Timing Considerations:
- Plan for adequate time
- Never rush for convenience
- Consider fish stress levels
- Allow for extended acclimation if needed

Temperature Matching Issues

Common Problems:
- Insufficient floating time
- Unmonitored temperature changes
- Rapid temperature fluctuations
- Incorrect thermometer readings
Prevention Steps:
- Use accurate thermometer
- Monitor every 5 minutes
- Adjust room temperature if needed
- Document temperature changes

Water Parameter Differences

Critical Parameters:
- pH variance (max 0.2 difference)
- GH/KH compatibility
- TDS adaptation
- Ammonia levels
- Nitrite/Nitrate levels
Adjustment Methods:
- Slow drip acclimation
- Gradual parameter matching
- Buffer usage if necessary
- Regular testing

Quarantine Protocols

Setup Requirements:
- Separate tank (10-20 gallons)
- Basic filtration
- Heater
- Minimal decoration
- Easy observation access
Quarantine Period:
- Minimum 2-4 weeks
- Daily observation
- Regular parameter testing
- Feeding monitoring
- Disease checking

Species Compatibility

Research Requirements:
- Verify temperature ranges
- Check pH preferences
- Consider tank level occupation
- Assess temperament
- Review adult sizes
Common Compatible Species:
- Other Corydoras species
- Peaceful tetras
- Rasboras
- Small peaceful barbs
- Dwarf gouramis

Tank Maintenance Best Practices

Regular Maintenance Schedule

Daily Monitoring

Check water temperature twice daily
Observe fish behavior and feeding patterns
Look for signs of distress or illness
Remove any uneaten food after feeding
Verify filter and heater operation
Check for dead or dying plants
Monitor water clarity and odor

Weekly Water Testing

Test complete parameter range:
- Ammonia (target: 0 ppm)
- Nitrite (target: 0 ppm)
- Nitrate (target: <20 ppm)
- pH (target: 6.5-7.5)
- KH/GH if needed
Document all test results
Compare with previous readings
Note any concerning trends
Adjust parameters if necessary

Bi-weekly Water Changes

Preparation:
- Age water 24 hours before use
- Match temperature precisely
- Add water conditioner
- Clean water change equipment
Process:
- Remove 25-30% of tank water
- Vacuum substrate carefully
- Clean algae from glass
- Trim plants if needed
- Refill slowly to avoid disturbing substrate

Monthly Deep Cleaning

Tank Maintenance:
- Clean decorations thoroughly
- Prune and maintain plants
- Check seals and joints
- Clean tank exterior
- Inspect background
Substrate Care:
- Deep vacuum all areas
- Check for dead spots
- Turn over top layer
- Remove debris from corners
- Look for trapped food
Water Quality:
- Test all parameters
- Check TDS levels
- Inspect water clarity
- Monitor fish response
- Document findings

Quarterly Filter Maintenance

Mechanical Filtration

Clean or replace filter pads
Rinse pre-filter material
Check impeller function
Clean filter housing
Verify flow rates

Biological Filtration

Gentle cleaning of bio-media
Never replace all media at once
Check for bypass areas
Monitor bacterial activity
Maintain beneficial bacteria

Equipment Maintenance

Filter Media Maintenance

Mechanical Media:
- Weekly rinse of pre-filter
- Monthly replacement of fine pads
- Quarterly deep cleaning
- Check for deterioration
- Monitor flow resistance
Chemical Media:
- Replace activated carbon monthly
- Check zeolite condition
- Monitor chemical removal effectiveness
- Replace as needed
- Document changes
Biological Media:
- Never clean all at once
- Use tank water for rinsing
- Check for clogging
- Monitor effectiveness
- Replace damaged pieces

Heater Maintenance

Regular Checks:
- Verify temperature accuracy
- Check for cracks or damage
- Test thermostat function
- Monitor heating pattern
- Clean mineral deposits
Safety Measures:
- Calibrate temperature
- Check cord condition
- Verify submersion level
- Test emergency shutoff
- Document performance

Water Flow Management

Filter Output:
- Check flow rate weekly
- Clean output nozzles
- Adjust direction if needed
- Monitor water movement
- Verify surface agitation
Circulation:
- Check dead spots
- Adjust powerheads
- Clean intake strainers
- Monitor fish comfort
- Optimize flow patterns

Component Replacement Schedule

Equipment	Inspection Frequency	Replacement Timeline
Filter Pads	Weekly	1-2 months
Bio-Media	Monthly	12-24 months
Heater	Monthly	2-3 years
Air Stones	Monthly	6 months
UV Bulbs	Quarterly	6-12 months
Filter Impeller	Quarterly	As needed

Lighting Schedule

Daily Requirements:
- 8-10 hours light period
- Consistent timing
- Gradual on/off preferred
- Monitor plant growth
- Observe fish behavior
Maintenance:
- Clean bulbs monthly
- Check timer function
- Replace bulbs annually
- Monitor spectrum
- Adjust duration seasonally

Emergency Response Protocol

Warning Signs: Detailed Breakdown

Unusual Swimming Patterns

Erratic swimming or darting
Swimming vertically or upside down
Floating at the surface or laying on the bottom
Difficulty maintaining balance
Swimming in circles or against tank walls
Twitching or spasming movements

Loss of Appetite

Refusal to eat for more than 24 hours
Spitting out food after taking it
Not responding to favorite foods
Missing feeding times
Avoiding feeding areas
Showing disinterest in food movement

Visible Injuries or Infections

White spots or patches on body
Reddened or inflamed areas
Fuzzy growths on body or fins
Fin deterioration or damage
Scale loss or damage
Open sores or ulcers
Cloudy or protruding eyes
Swollen body or abdomen

Gasping at Surface

Rapid gill movements
Staying near air stones or filter outputs
Opening and closing mouth rapidly
Extended periods at water surface
Labored breathing
Gills appearing red or inflamed

Color Changes

Unusual paleness or darkening
Loss of natural coloration
Development of odd patches
Stress stripes appearing
Rapid color changes
Mottled appearance

Lethargy

Reduced activity levels
Hiding more than usual
Slow responses to stimuli
Lack of interest in surroundings
Reduced social interaction
Minimal movement during feeding time

Immediate Actions

Take these steps when problems arise:

Test Water Parameters

Test full range of parameters:
- Ammonia
- Nitrite
- Nitrate
- pH
- Temperature
- Dissolved oxygen
- KH/GH if possible
Document results and compare to baseline readings
Check for any sudden changes or trends

Perform Water Change

Initial response:
- 25-30% immediate water change if parameters are off
- Use aged or pre-treated water
- Match temperature exactly
- Add water conditioner
Follow-up:
- Monitor parameters hourly after change
- Prepare for additional changes if needed
- Document water change volume and timing

Remove Affected Fish

Quarantine protocol:
- Set up hospital tank with:
  - Gentle filtration
  - Same water parameters
  - Minimal decoration
  - Easy observation access
Transfer process:
- Use clean net or container
- Minimize handling time
- Match water parameters exactly
- Maintain dimmed lighting

Adjust Temperature

Temperature management:
- Change no more than 1°F per hour
- Use accurate thermometer
- Monitor fish response
- Document temperature changes
Equipment check:
- Verify heater function
- Check for cold spots
- Ensure proper circulation

Prepare Medication

Before medicating:
- Identify specific symptoms
- Research appropriate treatment
- Remove chemical filtration
- Calculate correct dosage
- Check medication compatibility
Administration:
- Follow instructions exactly
- Document treatment start time
- Monitor fish response
- Prepare for full treatment course

Emergency Kit Checklist

Category	Items to Include	Replacement Schedule
Testing Supplies	Complete test kit, test tubes, charts	6 months
Medications	Antibiotics, anti-parasitic, anti-fungal	Check expiration dates
Equipment	Spare heater, air pump, nets	Annual inspection
Water Treatment	Conditioner, stress coat, salt	1 year
Documentation	Parameter log, symptoms guide, emergency contacts	Update quarterly

Frequently Asked Questions

Are cory catfish hard to keep alive?

Beginners will find Cory catfish perfect since they are easy to maintain alive. They flourish in well kept, clean tanks with consistent water quality. Make ensuring they dwell in groups, provide them a balanced diet including sinking pellets and occasional treats. Regular tank maintenance and water quality monitoring help to maintain them healthy and content.

What’s killing my cory catfish?

Cory catfish deaths are often caused by poor water quality, improper tank conditions, or stress. High ammonia or nitrite levels, overcrowding, and lack of oxygen can be fatal. Diseases like fin rot or ich may also contribute. Regular water tests, proper tank maintenance, and a stress-free environment help prevent fatalities.

How to tell if a cory catfish is dying?

Lethargy, loss of appetite, gasping at the surface, or swimming wildly are just a few of the symptoms a dying cory catfish could exhibit. Additional warning signals are pale coloration, clamped fins, or obvious disease symptoms including patches or sores. Check water parameters right away and find solutions to properly handle possible health problems.

Do cory cats eat dead fish?

Since cory catfish are scavengers, yes, if they come upon dead fish, they could consume it. Still, depending on them to handle dead fish is not wise. Eliminate dead tankmates right away to avoid contaminating the water. Giving corys a good feed guarantees their health and reduces survival scavenging.

How do I keep my cory catfish happy?

To keep cory catfish happy, provide a clean, well-filtered tank with soft substrate to protect their barbels. Maintain stable water conditions, and keep them in groups of 5 or more for social comfort. Offer a varied diet of sinking pellets and treats like bloodworms. Regular care ensures their happiness!

Conclusion

Preventing future losses and guaranteeing the health of your aquatic pets depend on knowing why cory catfish die. Your cory catfish’s prospects of long, healthy life will be much raised by keeping good water parameters, offering suitable feed, designing a suitable habitat, and remaining alert for signs of discomfort. Prevention is usually better than cure; hence, spending time on appropriate tank management and fish care will pay off with energetic, vivid cory catfish that accentuate your aquarium’s vitality and character. Knowing this will help you to make sure these lovely bottom dwellers flourish in your aquatic community and to offer the best possible treatment for them.

Additional Resources

Corydoras World: Species Database and Care Information
Planet Catfish: Comprehensive Corydoras Care Guide
University of Florida IFAS Extension: Freshwater Fish Disease Prevention
The Aquarium Wiki: Corydoras Care Requirements
American Veterinary Medical Association—Aquatic Animal Health Resources