Aspidors Dwarf Corydoras
Aspidors Dwarf Corydoras (Aspidoras cf. spilotus) is a small and charming member of the closely related genus Aspidoras — sometimes called 'false corydoras.' Aspidoras species are distinguished from true Corydoras by a slightly different skull structure and generally smaller adult size. This species displays a pale body with fine dark speckling and spots across the flanks in a pattern reminiscent of a very fine-spotted corydoras.
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 Baby Brine Shrimp. Smaller foods work well given this species' compact size.
Native to Brazil, Aspidoras species inhabit similar soft-water, sandy-substrate streams as true Corydoras. Care requirements are essentially identical to smaller Corydoras species. Soft, slightly acidic to neutral water with fine sand substrate and gentle filtration.
Keep in groups of at least six. Like true Corydoras, Aspidoras are highly social and stress in small numbers. Completely peaceful with all non-predatory species. Their small size makes them excellent companions for nano fish and shrimp.
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 — Nano Community |
| Typical Adult Size | 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 6 minimum — groups of 8+ for confidence |
| Ideal Temp | 72–79°F (22–26°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.0–7.0 |
| Ideal GH | 2–12 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 1–6 dKH |
| Staple Food | Hikari Sinking Wafers; Sera Vipachips Tropical Wafers |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Tubifex Worms, Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp |
| Origin | Brazil |
| Notes | Genus Aspidoras, not true Corydoras — slightly different skull structure, generally smaller. Care identical to small Corydoras species. Suitable for nano community setups. |
