The Pygmy Cory (Corydoras pygmaeus), or Pygmy Catfish, is a small freshwater fish from the Corydoradinae sub-family. ‘Cory’ is short for Corydoras, which is their genus. The Pygmy Cory is mainly found in the Madeira River basin in Brazil, but populations are found across the South American continent. Originally there was only thought to be one miniature Corydoras species (Corydoras hastatus). In the early 1900s, it was realized that many species had been misidentified, and so the Pygmy Cory species was described. They thrive in tropical aquariums and are a great choice for beginners, though they are popular with experienced aquarists too.

Since they are small, they do not live as long as larger aquarium species. Usually, they live to be 3 years old, but this could lengthen or shorten based on how well they are cared for.

These fish exhibit excellent behavior. They maintain their privacy and are simple to integrate into a group setting. Although they will swim in shoals higher up the aquarium, they spend the majority of their time in the lower levels. To avoid overcrowding the mid-levels, keep this in mind when filling the tank. You might see them right up at the surface. They can use their intestine to take in oxygen from the air. This is less efficient so they usually only do it if the water quality is poor.

This fish enjoys the company of its own kind. They often shoal (which is rare for a bottom-dweller) and may even swim in groups in the mid-levels of the tank (which is even rarer). Keep them in groups of at least four or more, but eight is recommended. The larger the group, the more impressive the sight.