Flase Bandit Corydoras

The False Bandit Corydoras (Corydoras melini) is a compact, peaceful catfish species popular among community‐aquarium hobbyists. It is also known as Melini cory, false bandit cory hoplisoma melini, & false bandit catfish. The catfish is native to the upper Rio Negro and Meta River basins in Brazil and Colombia.

It favours soft sandy substrate, subdued lighting and a shoaling lifestyle. With its distinctive “bandit mask” stripe across the eye and lower lobe of the caudal fin, the False Bandit adds both charm and function to the bottom of your tank. In a well‐set aquarium, it moves from hiding spots and actively scavenges, helping keep the substrate clean.

If you’re looking for a peaceful, active and bottom‐dwelling fish for a planted community setup, this species is a strong choice.

False Bandit Cory Size

The False Bandit Corydoras typically grows to about 5-6 cm (2 - 2.4 inches) in length, making it a compact and community-friendly catfish species.

Lifespan of False Bandit Catfish

With good care, these fish can live up to 5-7 years in home aquariums.

False Bandit Cory for sale

In India, you can typically find False Bandit Corydoras for around ₹ 800 to ₹ 1,500 each (depending on size, rarity and source).

False Bandit Catfish Tank Mates

1. Small peaceful tetras (e.g., neon, cardinal)
2. Rasboras and small cyprinids
3. Dwarf gouramis and other non-aggressive livebearers
4. Other Corydoras species (with similar size)

Avoid Pairing False Bandit Catfish With

1. Large aggressive cichlids or predatory fish
2. Fin-nipping barbs
3. Large catfish that may view them as prey