Considering corydoras

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tidescape
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Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 8:06 pm

Considering corydoras

Post by tidescape »

Thinking about adding some Corydoras to my 20 gallon tank. Got a sandy substrate and a few plants, but not sure how many to add or if they'll mess with my Betta. Any advice?
Yield
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Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 6:09 pm

Re: Considering corydoras

Post by Yield »

Corydoras are pretty chill with Bettas as long as the Betta isn't overly aggressive. I'd start with a group of 6 since they're social. Make sure your water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, and keep the temp around 78F. Sand is perfect for them, they love sifting through it.
trailmix
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Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 4:25 pm

Re: Considering corydoras

Post by trailmix »

Yep, Yield's spot on. Corys are gonna do great in a 20 gallon with sand. Just watch the Betta's behavior at first. If it's nippy, you might need to rearrange the tank to reset territories. Also, they're bottom feeders, so sinking pellets or wafers are a must.
Awake
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Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 5:52 pm

Re: Considering corydoras

Post by Awake »

Yield wrote: Mon Jul 28, 2025 3:13 pm Corydoras are pretty chill with Bettas as long as the Betta isn't overly aggressive. I'd start with a group of 6 since they're social. Make sure your water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, and keep the temp around 78F. Sand is perfect for them, they love sifting through it.
Adding to this, Corys are sensitive to water quality, so regular water changes are key. I do 20% weekly in my tank with Corys and they're thriving.
eerienights
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Re: Considering corydoras

Post by eerienights »

I've got a mixed tank with Corys and a Betta, and they've been fine together. Just make sure there's plenty of hiding spots. Driftwood and plants help a ton. Also, Corys are more active in groups, so the more the merrier, but don't overcrowd.
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thenoob
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Re: Considering corydoras

Post by thenoob »

How often do you feed your Corys? I've got some in my tank but they seem kinda lazy. Are they supposed to be this chill or am I doing something wrong?
Kodakai
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Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 4:54 pm

Re: Considering corydoras

Post by Kodakai »

thenoob wrote: Mon Jul 28, 2025 5:08 pm How often do you feed your Corys? I've got some in my tank but they seem kinda lazy. Are they supposed to be this chill or am I doing something wrong?
Corys are naturally chill, but they should be active during feeding times. I feed mine once a day, alternating between sinking pellets and frozen bloodworms. If they're not moving much, check your water params and temp.
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coralCartel
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Re: Considering corydoras

Post by coralCartel »

Corys are awesome, but they're kinda sensitive to meds. If you ever need to treat the tank, make sure it's Cory-safe. I learned that the hard way when I dosed my tank with something that wiped out half my group.
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duskon
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Re: Considering corydoras

Post by duskon »

I've had Corys for years and they're one of my favorites. They're hardy once acclimated, but like others said, water quality is huge. Also, avoid sharp substrate. Sand is best, but smooth gravel works too if it's not too coarse.
tidescape
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Re: Considering corydoras

Post by tidescape »

Thanks for all the advice, everyone. Gonna start with a group of 6 and keep an eye on the Betta. Appreciate the tips on feeding and water changes too.
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