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Blackfin Corydoras

Blackfin Corydoras

Origin

🇧🇷

Brazil

Habitat Size

50 - 150 liters

Water Type

Fresh Water

Water Temperature

22º-28ºC

Cost in India

₹80 - ₹150

Size

2 - 3 inches (Small)

Diet

Omnivore

A Blackfin Corydoras with dark spots and stripes rests on light colored gravel
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by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 19 Nov 2025

The Blackfin Corydoras (scientific name Corydoras leucomelas) is a peaceful, bottom-dwelling freshwater catfish celebrated for its distinctive black dorsal fin and elegant patterns. It is also known as Blackfin Jaguar Cory fish. The catfish is native to the South American river systems and thrives when kept in groups & given a calm, well-set aquarium environment.

With its modest size and engaging behaviour, it’s an excellent choice for community tanks. In India, basic availability makes it a nice choice for hobbyists who want a reliable bottom-dweller that adds both utility (substrate cleaning) and aesthetic appeal.

Blackfin Corydoras Fish Size

Under ideal conditions, expect the Blackfin Corydoras fish to grow to around 4–5 cm (₹1.6-2 inches) in length.

Blackfin Corydoras Lifespan

With good care (stable water, healthy diet, clean tank), they can live up to 5 years or more.

Blackfin Corydoras Price

In India, you can typically find Blackfin Corydoras priced approximately in the range of ₹500 to ₹1200 (in retail aquarium stores or online) depending on size, supply and condition.

Best Tank Mates

  1. Small peaceful tetras (e.g., Black Neon Tetra, Ember Tetra)
  2. Small rasboras and danios that won’t outcompete them for food
  3. Other peaceful cory species (provided similar water-parameters)
  4. Peaceful dwarf livebearers or small peaceful community fish

Avoid Pairing with

  1. Large predatory cichlids (e.g., Oscars, Jack Dempsey)
  2. Fin-nipping barbs or aggressive danios
  3. Very large catfish species that may out-compete or bully
  4. Fish that prefer much warmer or very different water parameters

Characteristics

Temperament

Aggressive

Friendly

Compatibility with other fishes

Not Friendly

Super Friendly

Habitat Size

Small

Large

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Blackfin Corydoras Fish Habitat

Initial Setup Cost

₹4,000 - ₹12,000

Water Temperature

22º -28ºC

Water Type

Fresh Water

PH Level

6 - 8

Maintain the habitat given below to ensure the fish thrive & live longer.

Parameter

Recommended Range

Minimum Tank Size

~40 L (~10 gallons) for small group

Temperature

22-27 °C (~71-80 °F)

pH

6.5-7.5 recommended

Hardness (GH)

Soft-to-moderate (e.g., 2-12 dGH)

Substrate & Décor

Fine sand or very smooth gravel; leaf litter, driftwood, shaded zones. Avoid sharp substrates that can injure barbels.

Essential Equipment

Aquarium tank

Water filter

Heater

Light

Substrate

Decor

Diet of Blackfin Jaguar Cory Fish

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹80 - ₹ 150

The Blackfin Corydoras fish is omnivorous and thrives on quality sinking pellets supplemented occasionally with live/ frozen treats and blanched vegetables.

Food Type

Examples

Staple sinking food

High-quality sinking pellets, bottom feeder wafers

Protein treats

Bloodworms, brine shrimp, microworms

Vegetables

Blanched zucchini, spinach, peas

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Health & Care Considerations of Blackfin Jaguar Cory Fish

Common Health Issues

Fin rot

White spot / ick

Columnaris (cotton wool-like growth on the skin)

Ammonia poisoning

Swim bladder disease

Parasitic infections

Signs of good health

Active

Bright coloration

Good apetite

Undamaged fins

Signs of sickness

Loss of appetite

Lethargic behaviour

Swimming abnormally

Tattered fins

Dull coloring

  1. Maintain clean, well-oxygenated water with stable parameters
  2. Perform regular partial water changes (20–25% weekly) to prevent ammonia and nitrate buildup.
  3. Use fine sand or smooth gravel substrate to protect delicate barbels from injury.
  4. Avoid overfeeding; uneaten food can decay quickly and harm water quality.
  5. Keep in groups of 6+ to reduce stress and encourage natural behaviour.
  6. Provide hiding spaces (driftwood, plants, caves) to mimic their natural habitat and lower anxiety.

Prerequisites for a Fish

Adequate tank space

Cleanliness

Effort & commitment

Enriching Environment

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Written by

Happy Pet Team

Author

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 substrate is best for their tank?

Fine gravel or sand substrate is ideal for their natural foraging behavior.

Are they compatible with other fish?

Yes, they are peaceful and get along well with other non-aggressive species.

What is the ideal water temperature for them?

They thrive in water temperatures between 22°C and 28°C.