Pink Nose Cory

Corydoras acutus is identified by its distinctly pointed snout — more acute than most cories — and a prominent, sharply defined black humeral blotch just behind the operculum. The body is silvery-white with scattered fine dark spots and a faint lateral stripe, giving a clean, classic Corydoras appearance. It is native to Peru and the surrounding upper Amazon drainage.

In the wild it inhabits slow to moderately flowing clear and blackwater streams over sandy or leaf-covered substrates. In the aquarium it is an adaptable and hardy species, tolerating standard community water conditions without difficulty. It is more widely available than many of the rarer cories, though still less frequently seen than the most common beginner species.

C. acutus is peaceful, social, and an efficient substrate cleaner. It schools actively and is a reliable addition to any peaceful South American community aquarium. Feed standard sinking foods and supplement with frozen invertebrates for best condition. A group of six or more will be most active and confident.

Water: Soft to moderately hard, pH 6.0–7.5, temperature 22–26°C; tolerates standard community parameters well. Tank: 80 L with fine sand substrate, some driftwood and plant decoration, and good filtration. Feeding: Sinking pellets, frozen Daphnia, bloodworm, and algae wafers; daily feeding recommended. Breeding: Typical cory spawning; cool water change trigger; relatively easy to spawn with basic conditioning. Compatibility: Excellent for all peaceful South American community setups.