Start with the school.
Pygmy Corydoras, Gastrodermus pygmaeus, formerly Corydoras pygmaeus, are social fish that reach about 0.75 to 1.25 inches. Keep a group of 6 to 8, with 10 or more ideal where space allows. Unlike many bottom dwellers, they may hover and swim in mid-water as a group.
Set up the tank for comfort.
- Minimum tank: 10 gallons for a small school.
- Temperature: 72 to 79°F.
- pH: 6.0 to 7.5.
- Substrate: fine sand is preferred for their sensitive barbels.
Keep the company peaceful.
Small peaceful tetras, rasboras, shrimp, and snails are compatible choices. Avoid aggressive fish and species that outcompete them at feeding time.
Feed a varied diet.
Pygmy Cories are omnivorous. Offer quality flakes, sinking pellets, frozen foods, and occasional live foods. The shop's Pygmy Bites are .2 to .6 mm grains of 51% protein carnivore starter food, with a feeding suggestion of a small pinch twice daily or alternating with live foods.
Help them settle in.
Bob's fish listing notes that a Pygmy Bites sample is included to help with acclimation. Take time with the transition, keep the lighting calm, and make sure the school has places to rest and explore.