Peppered Cory - (Corydoras (lineage 6) paleatus)

🐟 Peppered Cory – (Corydoras (lineage 6) paleatus) – Peaceful Freshwater Catfish for Sale

The Peppered Cory (Corydoras paleatus), a member of lineage 6 of the Corydoras genus, is a hardy and peaceful bottom-dwelling catfish loved by community aquarium keepers worldwide. Native to cooler, slow-moving rivers and streams of South America (Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Paraguay), this species is named for its attractive mottled “peppered” pattern.

Peppered Corys are social schooling fish that thrive in groups, constantly foraging the bottom for leftover food while helping keep the substrate clean. They are ideal for peaceful community aquariums and are especially hardy, making them great for beginners and experienced aquarists alike.

🔎 Quick Facts – Peppered Cory (Corydoras paleatus)

• 📛 Common Name: Peppered Cory, Peppered Catfish
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Corydoras paleatus (Lineage 6)
• 🌍 Origin: Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Paraguay
• 🎨 Appearance: Light tan to silver body covered with dark, irregular pepper-like markings
• 📏 Max Size: 2.5–3 inches (6–7.5 cm)
• 💎 Availability: Captive-bred and wild-caught available

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🐟 Peaceful and social – best kept in groups of 5+
• 🪵 Constantly forages along the substrate
• 🤝 Compatible with most community fish
• 🧠 Can adapt to cooler water temperatures compared to most tropical fish

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 20+ gallons for a small group
• 🌿 Soft, sandy substrate to protect delicate barbels
• 🪵 Provide hiding spots with driftwood, caves, and plants
• 💡 Low to moderate lighting
• 🌊 Gentle water flow

💧 Water Parameters – Peppered Cory Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 68–78°F (20–26°C) – tolerates cooler water
• ⚗️ pH: 6.0–7.5
• 💧 Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water

🍽️ Diet – Omnivorous Catfish

• 🌾 Sinking pellets and wafers
• 🦐 Frozen or live foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia
• 🥬 Occasional blanched vegetables such as zucchini or spinach

📋 Peppered Cory Care Overview Table

✨ Highlight:

• The Peppered Cory is a hardy, peaceful, and attractive schooling catfish perfect for community aquariums, offering constant activity, substrate cleaning, and a charming personality.