Orange Venezuelan Cory (Corydoras venezuelanus) 4cm Preorder (10-15 days delivery)

The Orange Venezuelan Cory (Corydoras venezuelanus) is a vibrant, peaceful freshwater catfish highly prized for its unique bright copper-orange body and contrasting metallic blue-green shoulder patches. Growing to about 5 to 6 cm (2 to 2.5 inches), these active bottom-dwellers add both incredible color and playful energy to freshwater community aquariums.

Unlike many common drab catfish, their striking coloration develops and intensifies beautifully as they mature.

Behavior & Tank Environment

Strict Schooling Nature

You must keep them in groups of at least 6 fish. They are highly social, and keeping them in a proper shoal gives them confidence, prevents stress, and brings out their playful behaviors.

Substrate Requirements

You must use a fine sand or very smooth gravel substrate. Corydoras constantly dig and sift through the floor to hunt for food. Sharp rocks or rough gravel will permanently damage or erode their sensitive sensory barbels (whiskers), leading to infections.

Surface Breathing Gulping

Do not freak out if you see them dart rapidly to the top of the tank for a quick gasp of air. They possess a modified intestine that allows them to breathe atmospheric air. Always leave a small air gap between the waterline and your lid so they can safely take a gulp.

Diet & Nutrition

A common mistake is treating Corydoras solely as "scavengers" that can survive on algae or waste left over by other fish. They are omnivores that require a high-protein, dedicated diet to thrive.

Daily Base: High-quality sinking catfish pellets, wafers, or bug-based bottom pellets.

Protein Treats: Give them frozen or live bloodworms, brine shrimp, or Daphnia a few times a week.

Feeding Schedule: Feed them at night or right after turning off the tank lights to ensure upper-water fish don't steal their food.

Compatibility & Tank Mates

They are incredibly peaceful and will never bother their tank mates.Great Mates: Tetras, Rasboras, Guppies, Danios, dwarf Gouramis, and peaceful dwarf Cichlids.

Shrimp Warning: While safe with larger ornamental shrimp, they are opportunistic feeders and may prey on tiny baby dwarf shrimp if they stumble across them on the substrate.