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Emerald Corydoras
Emerald Corydoras
Origin
South America
Habitat Size
50 - 150 liters
Water Type
Fresh Water
Water Temperature
22º-26ºC
Cost in India
₹80 - ₹150
Size
2.5 - 4 inches (Small)
Diet
Omnivore
by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 11 Nov 2025
Introduction to Emerald Corydoras Catfish
Emerald green Corydoras is also known as Emerald Brocis Corydoras or Corydoras Spendens. It has a metallic, emerald green colour that is vibrant and beautiful. Corydoras is a peaceful catfish loved by aquarists for its easy-to-school behaviour and easy-to-care maintenance.
The Emerald green corydoras catfish is a bottom-feeder scavenger. It adds beauty and utility to an aquarium. It is native to floodplains and slow-moving rivers of the Amazon basin in Peru, Ecuador, and Brazil.
The catfish displays metallic green, bluish-green colour, and other similar hues under different lighting. Its fins have a translucent brownish tint that makes this catfish remarkable and beautiful aesthetically.
What is the size of Emerald Corydoras Catfish?
The Emerald cory size can range anywhere between 7.5 and 9 cm (3 to 3.5 inches) under good care. This catfish is larger in size than many Corydoras species. So, expect a certain sense of influence in the tank and in the group they are paired with.
What is the life expectancy of Emerald Cory Catfish?
Emerald cory catfish lifespan can reach up to 5 years under ideal aquarium conditions. Some have reported that catfish can live a little longer under good care. Regular water cleaning, good substrate and quality filtration are important for good care.
What is the price of Emerald Corydoras?
The Emerald Corydoras is available at online aquarium websites and local aquarium shops, priced anywhere between ₹89 to ₹150.
Best Compatible With:
- Tetras (Neon, Cardinal, Rummy Nose)
- Small Rasboras (Harlequin, Lambchop)
- Livebearers (Guppies, Mollies, Platies)
- Dwarf Gouramis (Honey, Pearl)
- Other Corydoras species
Avoid Pairing With:
- Large aggressive Cichlids (Oscars, Jack Dempsey)
- Fin-nipping Barbs (Tiger, Tinfoil)
- Aggressive male Bettas
- Predatory Catfish (Redtail, Pictus)
- African Rift Lake Cichlids (Mbuna, Peacock)
Characteristics
Temperament
Aggressive
Friendly
Compatibility with other fishes
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Habitat Size
Small
Large
Habitat Requirement for Emerald Green Cory Catfish
Initial Setup Cost
₹4,000 - ₹12,000
Water Temperature
22º -26ºC
Water Type
Fresh Water
PH Level
6 - 7.5
The catfish will live a healthy life when the most recommended living conditions are met. Emerald Corydoras love staying in small groups of 6 or more. This is essential to promote their natural behaviour and reduce stress.
Parameter | Details |
Minimum Tank Size | Emerald green cory catfish tank size is minimum 30 gallons (110–120 litres). |
Substrate | Soft sand or very smooth gravel. |
Decor & Plants | Lighting: Dim to moderate lighting to mimic natural habitat. |
Water Temperature | 20–28 °C (≈ 68–82 °F) |
pH Level | 5.0–8.0 |
Hardness | Soft to moderately hard. |
Essential Equipment
Water filter
Heater
Substrate
Decor
Light
Aquarium tank
Emerald Corydoras Catfish Nutritional guide
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹80 - ₹ 150
This catfish is a bottom-feeder and enjoys animal & plant matter. It scavenges food at the bottom and rarely comes to the surface for feeding.
How often should the catfish be fed?
The cory catfish should be fed twice a day in similar amounts. The food has to sink to the substrate as they do not come to the surface for feeding. Please avoid overfeeding, as the excess food will harm their barbs and pollute the tank.
Type | Omnivore |
Main Foods | High-quality sinking pellets, algae wafers |
Treats | Live/frozen foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia |
Veggies | Blanched zucchini, cucumber, peas |
Feeding Tips | Feed 2× daily |
Health
Common Health Issues
Pop eye (swollen eyes)
Fin rot
White spot / ick
Bacterial infections
Fungal infections
Swim bladder inflammation
Signs of good health
Active
Bright coloration
Undamaged fins
Good apetite
Signs of sickness
Reduced activity
Loss of appetite
Lethargic behaviour
Frequent hiding
Tattered fins
Dull coloring
The catfish requires good care. It must be kept in stable water conditions with a proper diet and a soft substrate. They can catch these common diseases if not taken care of properly.
- Ich: This condition occurs due to parasites and can affect a catfish’s health quickly. The most common way to recognise the disease is tiny white specks on the skin. This is why Ich is also called white spot disease. Isolating the affected fish can provide relief.
- Fin rot: This is caused by bacterial damage. It can make the fish look ragged. Monitor closely to prevent the condition from progressing.
- Red blotch disease: This disease causes bloody sores on the fish’s body. Use aquarium-safe antifungal or antiparasitic treatments when required to protect the catfish.
- Swim bladder disease: Emerald Corydoras Catfish showcase abnormal swimming patterns when affected with this condition. It is often caused by low oxygen levels in the aquarium.
Prerequisites for a Fish
Adequate tank space
Cleanliness
Effort & commitment
Enriching Environment
Written by
Happy Pet TeamAuthor
Team Happy Pet is a passionate collective of pet experts, enthusiasts, and advocates dedicated to sharing trusted and insightful content.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal tank size for Emerald Corydoras?
A minimum of 100 liters is recommended for a group of these fish.
Can Emerald Corydoras live with other fish?
Yes, they are peaceful and compatible with many community fish.
What should I feed my Emerald Corydoras?
A varied diet of flakes, pellets, and occasional live or frozen foods is ideal.