Bandit Corydoras
Hoplisoma metae
Bandit Corydoras is a peaceful bottom-dwelling corydoras. Keep in a loose group of 6+.
Save this fish or add it directly to one of your aquariums.
Need help with Bandit Corydoras?
Explore compatibility, care or problems using this guide and your aquarium’s conditions.
Quick facts
- Adult size
- ≤ 2" (≤ 5 cm)
- Aquarium size
- 19 US gal (72 L) or larger / ≥ 31.5" (≥ 80 cm) minimum length
- Care level
- Beginner – Intermediate
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Swimming zone
- Bottom dweller
- Temperature
- 68–79°F (20–26°C)
- pH
- 6–7.5
- GH
- 5–12 dGH
- Diet
- Omnivore
- Lifespan
- up to 5 years
- Group behavior
- Keep in a loose group of 6+
Care requirements
Care level: Beginner – Intermediate.
Lifespan: up to 5 years.
Aquarium size and space needs
Minimum aquarium size: 19 US gal (72 L) or larger / ≥ 31.5" (≥ 80 cm) minimum length. Plan the layout and stocking within that limit.
Water parameters
Suitable water: temperature 20–26 °C, pH 6–7.5, GH 5–12 dGH.
Temperament and compatibility
Bandit Corydoras is peaceful and suits calm community fish.
Swimming zone and behavior
This fish uses the bottom area, so leave enough open substrate area for movement and feeding.
Feeding
As an omnivore, Bandit Corydoras should receive a varied diet rather than one repeated food type.
Feed a varied sinking diet and small live or frozen foods. Do not rely on leftovers from other fish.
Before adding this fish
- Plan for an aquarium of 19 US gal (72 L) or larger / ≥ 31.5" (≥ 80 cm) minimum length.
- Avoid aggressive or highly competitive fish.
- Keep in a loose group of 6+.
- Offer a varied diet suited to this species’ documented feeding habits.
Natural habitat and origin
Origin: Colombia.
Important notes
- Historical Corydoras metae is now Hoplisoma metae.
- Use a group and barbel-safe smooth substrate.
Similar fish profiles
Use these profiles to compare fish with similar care level, size, temperature range, or swimming behavior.
FAQ
How large does Bandit Corydoras get?
Bandit Corydoras reaches ≤ 2" (≤ 5 cm).
What aquarium size does Bandit Corydoras need?
Use an aquarium of at least 19 US gal (72 L) or larger / ≥ 31.5" (≥ 80 cm) minimum length.
Is Bandit Corydoras peaceful?
Yes. Bandit Corydoras is recorded as peaceful and is best planned with calm community fish that do not harass it or dominate the feeding area.
What temperature is suitable for Bandit Corydoras?
Keep it between 20 to 26 °C.
Should Bandit Corydoras be kept alone or in a group?
Bandit Corydoras: Keep in a loose group of 6+.