Bronze Corydoras

Corydoras aeneus

The bronze corydoras (Corydoras aeneus) is a small armored catfish from South American freshwater habitats, and one of the most familiar Corydoras in aquariums. It has a rounded body, paired barbels around the mouth, a bronze to greenish sheen on the sides, and bony plates instead of ordinary scales. Like other cory cats, it spends much of its time searching the bottom for small foods while occasionally darting to the surface to gulp air. Albino and domestic lines are also common in the trade.

Bronze corydoras do best in groups, where their constant foraging and resting behavior looks more natural. They need clean water, soft sand or smooth substrate that protects the barbels, gentle hiding places, and sinking foods rather than leftovers alone. Sharp gravel, poor water quality, and underfeeding can lead to worn barbels and weak condition. Breeding often follows conditioning and water changes, with eggs placed on glass, leaves, or other surfaces. They fit peaceful community tanks when tankmates leave them enough food and space.