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Natterer's Corydoras

Natterer's Corydoras

Breed InfoHabitatNutritionHealth

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

ANatterers Corydoras with a dark lateral stripe rests on a bed of multi colored gravel
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by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 20 Nov 2025

Natterer’s Corydoras, also called the Blue Corydoras, has a shiny bluish body and a dark horizontal stripe, and is known as a small bottom-dwelling catfish. This peaceful fish, which is known scientifically as Corydoras nattereri, is ideal for those freshwater community tanks.

It is quite friendly and also active. It loves to be foraging along the bottom here. Their calm nature and group behaviour make them a favourite of aquarists.

  1. Other names: Blue Corydoras, Corydoras nattereri
  2. Maximum size: About 5.4 cm long

Natterer’s Corydoras Origin

  1. It is native to southeastern Brazil and found within rivers from Espírito Santo to Paraná.
  2. It inhabits coastal drainage. These drainages flow into the Atlantic Ocean.

Natterer’s Corydoras Temperament

  1. Very peaceful, calm, and social
  2. Classic shoaling fish - always happier in groups of at least 5–6
  3. Active bottom-dwellers that sift through sand for food

Natterer’s Corydoras Compatibility

  1. Good tank mates: Small non-aggressive fish, for example, guppies, platies, with other small tetras, rasboras, and peaceful gouramis.
  2. Avoid large fish or aggressive fish that can cause stress or that can outcompete them.

Natterer’s Corydoras Price Range (India)

  1. Not as common as some other Corydoras species
  2. Prices may vary depending on availability, typically ₹800–₹1,500 per fish

Characteristics

Temperament

Aggressive

Friendly

Compatibility with other fishes

Not Friendly

Super Friendly

Habitat Size

Small

Large

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Natterer’s Corydoras Habitat Requirements

Initial Setup Cost

₹4,000 - ₹12,000

Water Temperature

22º -28ºC

Water Type

Fresh Water

PH Level

6 - 7.5

Natterer’s Corydoras Tank Type

  1. Freshwater aquarium only

Natterer’s Corydoras Aquarium Size

  1. A small group, including about 5 to 6 fish, requires approximately 12 gallons, or at least 40 to 45 litres.
  2. A 20-gallon tank is best for stability. Bigger tanks exist, too, as an option.

Natterer’s Corydoras Water Conditions

  1. Temperature: It is at 20, 23°C (68, 73°F)
  2. pH: Neutral to slightly acidic (6.0, 8.0)
  3. Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water, to 2 to 25 dGH

Natterer’s Corydoras Environment Needs

  1. Substrate: Barbels are protected through the use of smooth gravel or fine sand
  2. Plants & decor: Live plants, driftwood, and hiding spots create a natural setting
  3. Lighting: Lighting is of a moderate level, along with floating plants for providing shade
  4. Filtration & flow: Good filtration with gentle water flow. Avoid strong currents
  5. Water changes: Keep water both stable and clean via replacing 20- 30% of it weekly

Essential Equipment

Water filter

Heater

Light

Substrate

Decor

Aquarium tank

Natterer’s Corydoras Nutritional Guide

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹80 - ₹ 150

Natterer’s Corydoras Diet Type

  1. Omnivore - eats both plant matter and animal protein.

Natterer’s Corydoras Suitable Foods

  1. Staple food: Sinking pellets or tablets are staple food. They are actually made simply for bottom feeders.
  2. Protein foods: Daphnia, brine shrimp, and live or frozen bloodworms
  3. Vegetables: Small portions including zucchini, cucumber, or softened peas
  4. Prepared foods: High-quality sinking granules and crushed flakes

Natterer’s Corydoras Feeding Frequency & Tips

  1. Feed once or twice daily in small amounts
  2. Ensure food reaches the bottom - Corys don’t eat from the surface
  3. Remove uneaten food to avoid water pollution
  4. Rotate between pellets, live/frozen foods, and veggies for balanced nutrition
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Natterer’s Corydoras Health & Care

Common Health Issues

Fin rot

White spot / ick

Bacterial infections

Fungus

Ammonia poisoning

Parasitic infections

Signs of good health

Active

Bright coloration

Good apetite

Undamaged fins

Signs of sickness

Loss of appetite

Lethargic behaviour

Frequent hiding

Dull coloring

Increased breathing rate

Some common health issues in Corydoras nattereri are:

  1. Barbel Damage or Infection: Caused by sharp gravel or dirty substrate. Switch to sand and maintain water quality.
  2. Fungal and Bacterial Infections: Poor tank hygiene can cause fin rot or cloudy eyes.
  3. Parasites (Ich): White spots and scratching behaviour are signs.

Natterer’s Corydoras Preventive Care

  1. Quarantine new fish before introducing them to the main tank for 2 to 3 weeks
  2. Regular tests help with keeping water parameters stable
  3. Lower stress through peaceful tank mates, along with hiding spaces
  4. Support immunity with a varied diet and clean water
  5. These fish can usually live for 3 to 5 years or sometimes for longer with good care

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

Are they good community fish?

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

Do they require special care?

No, they are relatively low-maintenance and suitable for beginners. Regular water changes and a clean tank are sufficient.

What size tank do I need for Natterer's Corydoras?

A minimum of 40 liters is recommended for a small group.