Fairy Cory
Corydoras sp.
Fairy Cory (Corydoras sp.) — Easy care, Peaceful, under Catfish & Cory. Minimum tank in the app: 15.9 US gal min; aim for 70–81°F and pH 6–7.8. The Fairy Cory is well-suited for beginners and those seeking a peaceful addition to community tanks.

Captive lifespan reflects typical experience in a home aquarium, not maximum recorded age; genetics, sourcing, and care vary.
Natural distribution
Mostly South America / Africa
- South America
- Africa
Regional colours match the stocking calculator’s origin map.
Fairy Cory Tank Setup
Aim for a spacious layout with fine substrate to protect their delicate barbels, alongside ample hiding spots from plants or caves. Moderate water flow is ideal to mimic their natural habitat, while subdued lighting can help them feel secure and encourage natural behaviours.
What Do Fairy Corys Eat?
These omnivores feed at a more leisurely pace, so ensure they receive enough food without competition from faster eaters. Sinking pellets, flakes, or algae wafers work well, but it's essential to provide a varied diet to enhance their health and coloration.
Fairy Cory Tank Mates
Fairy Corys pair well with similarly sized peaceful species, such as small tetras or rasboras. Avoid aggressive fish or those that occupy the same bottom layer, as this can lead to stress; they do best in multi-species setups where they can explore without competition.
Are Fairy Corys Good for Beginners?
In App-aquatic we file this under easy care. That still means a cycled tank, realistic stocking, and parameters that do not swing every weekend. Aquarists often underestimate the need for a well-structured habitat and may overstock the tank, leading to stress and aggression. Neglecting substrate choice can also damage their barbels, leading to health issues.
Building a community? Run the full list through the stocking calculator before you add anything else.
Log tests and reminders in App-aquatic—free, same data you see here.




