Bred by TFR
Pygmy Corydoras (Corydoras Pygmeus)
Native Location: South America, Brazil
Climate: Tropical
Maximum Size: 2cm (1 inch)
Temperament: Peaceful
Diet: Omnivore
Breeding: Easy
Temperature Range: 22 – 26 (72 – 79)
Preferred pH Range: 6 – 8
Minimum Aquarium Size: 38 L (10 gallons)
Potential Tankmates: Mollies, Neon Tetras, Guppies
Care Level: Beginner
Pygmy are not the largest fish out there, but their small size is a big draw that many people cannot resist.
These are very well-behaved fish and will keep to themselves in a community setup. If a fight does break out, they are not the ones who started it. Fish of a similar size and gentle temperament are good choices. They will spend most of their time in the lower levels but swim in shoals higher up in the tank. Be aware of this so you do not overstock your tank with fish who want to spend their time in the mid-section. Shoaling is a rare occurrence for bottom-dwellers, but Pygmys need to be a part of a group with at least four but a recommended eight to be happy. They then also become an impressive sight to behold.
If you see Pygmys’ at the very top of your tank. They could be using their intestine to take in oxygen from the air and could be a sign of ill water quality. As Catfish, they will spend their time along a sandy substrate. Hiding among plants and “debris” such as sticks or sizeable forms of wood, also try rocks. Fine gravel or sandy substrates are the better options as Pygmy will then be less likely to injure themselves.
Pygmy are small fish, females 2cm long and males are even smaller at about 1.5cm. Their bodies are silver, a black line running from their snout to the tail fin. Breeding is not a difficult task. Mature Pygmy will not need any help here. But once you realise how small adult Pygmy are, you could imagine how tiny their fry are. This could be the real challenge of breeding Pygmy at home. Since their bodies are so small, they will need smaller food. Once spawning has occurred, remove adult fish from the tank as they try to eat their fry.
All our fish are quarantined on arrival for two weeks. During this time, they are treated for any possible diseases and given a complete health check to make sure they are health, happy and eating well before being placed in our display aquariums, ready for sale.
Dead on Arrival (DOA) Policy: In the unfortunate event that your fish arrives dead, please follow these steps: Within 12 hours of the delivery, take clear, unopened bag pictures showing the deceased fish. Send these photographs and your order number to our customer service email at getfish@thefishroom.co.nz or to our Facebook page and we will then offer a refund or store credit for the cost of the fish.
Two-Week Guarantee Policy: We stand behind the health and quality of our fish, which is why we offer a two-week guarantee starting from the day of delivery. If your fish dies within this time frame, adhere to the following procedure: Take clear photos of the deceased fish. Using a reliable test kit, document via a dated photo, water parameters (pH, ammonia, nitrate, nitrite levels). Please email us the photographs, water parameters, and order number to getfish@thefishroom.co.nz or our Facebook page. After reviewing your claim, if approved, we will issue a store credit for the cost of the fish. Our two-week guarantee does not cover fish deaths due to unsuitable water conditions, incompatible tank mates or “disasters” i.e. a heater overheating. We recommend thoroughly researching each fish species' needs before introducing them to your aquarium to prevent such situations.
Freight Charges: Please note that shipping or freight charges are non-refundable under all circumstances. We hope this guide makes our refund and guarantee process more understandable. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please get in touch with us at getfish@thefishroom.co.nz. We are always happy to assist. Thank you for choosing The Fish Room. Happy fish keeping!
