Polka Dot Corydoras
Polka Dot Corydoras (Corydoras atropersonatus) is a charming species from Ecuador and Peru with a pale, almost translucent body covered in bold, well-spaced round dark spots — true polka dots that give the fish a clean, graphic appearance. The eye mask adds additional pattern interest.
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, Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp. Feed near the substrate at or after lights-out when corydoras are most active.
Native to Ecuador and Peru (Amazon slope drainages). In the aquarium, soft to medium, slightly acidic to neutral water with fine sand substrate, gentle filtration, and shaded areas created by driftwood or plants replicates the natural habitat and produces the most active, healthy behavior.
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 |
| Typical Adult Size | 2.0 inches (5 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 6 minimum — groups of 8+ for best activity |
| 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 | Ecuador and Peru (Amazon slope drainages) |
| Notes | Bold round polka-dot spots on pale body. Clean graphic pattern. Ecuador and Peru origin. Atropersonatus means 'dark-masked.' Sand substrate essential. |
