Long Fin Peppered Corydoras
Long Fin Peppered Corydoras (Corydoras paleatus) presents the beloved peppered pattern — pale silver body with dark irregular spots — enhanced by dramatically extended, flowing fins. The elongated dorsal fin in particular gives this fish a striking, sail-like profile when fully extended.
Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Sinking Wafers make an excellent daily staple and Sera Vipachips Tropical Wafers are an excellent alternative. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Tubifex Worms or Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms. Longfin varieties require particularly clean water — prioritize excellent filtration and regular water changes.
Care requirements are identical to the standard Peppered Corydoras. The cool-water tolerance is fully retained in this form. The extended fins require pristine water quality and gentle flow to remain in good condition. Avoid fin-nipping tankmates entirely.
Keep in groups of at least six — this is not optional for Corydoras. In the wild these fish occur in schools of dozens to hundreds. A lone Corydoras or a group of fewer than six is a stressed fish that stays hidden, refuses food, and lives a shortened life. In a proper group they are bold, constantly active, and endlessly entertaining to watch as they forage together across the bottom of the aquarium.
Corydoras are highly sensitive to substrate quality — fine sand is strongly preferred over gravel, as rough substrates damage the delicate barbels they use to forage. Regular partial water changes and pristine water quality are essential, as all Corydoras are sensitive to nitrites and dissolved waste. Sand substrate, gentle flow, and shaded areas with driftwood or plants will keep this species at its happiest and most active.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful — Community (avoid fin nippers) |
| Typical Adult Size | 2.5 inches (6.3 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 6 minimum |
| Ideal Temp | 59–77°F (15–25°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Ideal GH | 2–15 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 1–10 dKH |
| Staple Food | Hikari Sinking Wafers; Sera Vipachips Tropical Wafers |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Tubifex Worms, Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms |
| Origin | Captive-bred from La Plata basin stock |
| Notes | Longfin form of Peppered Corydoras. Tolerates cool unheated aquariums. Extended fins require very clean water and gentle flow. Avoid fin-nipping tankmates. |
