Mini Cory

Corydoras cochui is a true miniature — adults rarely exceed 2.5 cm total length — making it one of the tiniest members of the genus. Native to the Araguaia River basin in central Brazil, it inhabits shallow, slow-flowing clear-water streams over fine sand and leaf litter. Despite its small size it is robust and adaptable provided the aquarium is well maintained.

Like other dwarf cories, C. cochui differs from its larger relatives in frequently swimming in the water column rather than remaining strictly on the substrate. This mid-water schooling behaviour makes it particularly charming in a densely planted nano aquarium, where a group of ten or more will weave continuously through vegetation and open water alike.

Because of its tiny size, food must be appropriately sized. Powdered or very finely crushed sinking pellets, micro-granules, and baby brine shrimp are all suitable. The species is perfectly peaceful and can be kept with other nano fish such as microrasboras, small tetras, and pygmy rasboras, as well as invertebrates.

Water: Soft to moderately hard, pH 6.0–7.0, temperature 22–26°C; clean water essential due to small body mass. Tank: 30 L nano tank or larger; fine sand substrate, dense planting, and gentle filtration to avoid strong currents. Feeding: Micro-granules, powdered fry food, baby brine shrimp, and finely crushed sinking wafers. Breeding: Documented in aquaria; scatter eggs on leaves; small water change with cooler water as trigger. Compatibility: Ideal with microrasboras, pygmy tetras, small shrimp (though shrimp may eat eggs), and peaceful nano species.