Fairy Corydoras
Hoplisoma atropersonatum
Fairy 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 Fairy Corydoras?
Explore compatibility, care or problems using this guide and your aquarium’s conditions.
Quick facts
- Adult size
- ≤ 2" (≤ 5 cm)
- Aquarium size
- 21 US gal (80 L) or larger / ≥ 19.7" (≥ 50 cm) minimum length
- Care level
- Beginner – Intermediate
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Swimming zone
- Bottom dweller
- Temperature
- 75–81°F (24–27°C)
- pH
- 6–7
- GH
- 2–10 dGH
- Diet
- Omnivore
- Lifespan
- 8–12 years
- Group behavior
- Keep in a loose group of 6+
Care requirements
Care level: Beginner – Intermediate.
Lifespan: 8–12 years.
Aquarium size and space needs
Minimum aquarium size: 21 US gal (80 L) or larger / ≥ 19.7" (≥ 50 cm) minimum length. Plan the layout and stocking within that limit.
Water parameters
Suitable water: temperature 24–27 °C, pH 6–7, GH 2–10 dGH.
Temperament and compatibility
Fairy 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, Fairy Corydoras should receive a varied diet rather than one repeated food type.
Offer sinking granules/tablets and suitable small live/frozen foods, ensuring access at the substrate.
Before adding this fish
- Plan for an aquarium of 21 US gal (80 L) or larger / ≥ 19.7" (≥ 50 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: Peru.
Important notes
- Name requires taxonomic spelling shift: Corydoras atropersonatus → Hoplisoma atropersonatum.
- Sometimes confused with similar C097 / Brochis sychri-type aquarium specimens; verify trade identity.
Similar fish profiles
Use these profiles to compare fish with similar care level, size, temperature range, or swimming behavior.
FAQ
How large does Fairy Corydoras get?
Fairy Corydoras reaches ≤ 2" (≤ 5 cm).
What aquarium size does Fairy Corydoras need?
Use an aquarium of at least 21 US gal (80 L) or larger / ≥ 19.7" (≥ 50 cm) minimum length.
Is Fairy Corydoras peaceful?
Yes. Fairy 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 Fairy Corydoras?
Keep it between 24 to 27 °C.
Should Fairy Corydoras be kept alone or in a group?
Fairy Corydoras: Keep in a loose group of 6+.
