Polystictus Corydoras

Hoplisoma polystictum

Polystictus Corydoras is a peaceful bottom-dwelling corydoras. Keep in a loose group of 6+.

PeacefulBottom dwellerKeep in a loose group of 6+Beginner – Intermediate

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Quick facts

Adult size: ≤ 2" (≤ 5 cm)
Aquarium size: 11 US gal (41 L) or larger / ≥ 17.7" (≥ 45 cm) minimum length
Care level: Beginner – Intermediate
Temperament: Peaceful
Swimming zone: Bottom dweller
Temperature: 68–77°F (20–25°C)
pH: 6–7.6
GH: 1–15 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: 11 US gal (41 L) or larger / ≥ 17.7" (≥ 45 cm) minimum length. Plan the layout and stocking within that limit.

Water parameters

Suitable water: temperature 20–25 °C, pH 6–7.6, GH 1–15 dGH.

Temperament and compatibility

Polystictus 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

Feed species-appropriate sinking tablets plus small live/frozen foods; actively check intake beneath other fish.

How to feed aquarium fish — General freshwater community guidance

Before adding this fish

Plan for an aquarium of 11 US gal (41 L) or larger / ≥ 17.7" (≥ 45 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: Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina.

Similar fish profiles

Use these profiles to compare fish with similar care level, size, temperature range, or swimming behavior.

Axelrods Corydoras Hoplisoma axelrodi Same genus Same family Similar care level Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2" (≤ 5 cm) 72–79°F (22–26°C) Bandit Corydoras Hoplisoma metae Same genus Same family Similar care level Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2" (≤ 5 cm) 68–79°F (20–26°C) Blackstripe Corydoras Hoplisoma bondi Same genus Same family Similar care level Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2" (≤ 5 cm) 68–79°F (20–26°C) Adolfos Catfish Hoplisoma adolfoi Same genus Same family Similar care level Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2.4" (≤ 6 cm) 75–79°F (24–26°C) Araguaia Corydoras Hoplisoma araguaiaense Same genus Same family Similar care level Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2.4" (≤ 6 cm) 73–79°F (23–26°C) Black Diamond Corydoras CW49 Corydoras sp. Same genus Same family Similar care level Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2.2" (≤ 5.5 cm) 75–79°F (24–26°C)

FAQ

How large does Polystictus Corydoras get?

Polystictus Corydoras reaches ≤ 2" (≤ 5 cm).

What aquarium size does Polystictus Corydoras need?

Use an aquarium of at least 11 US gal (41 L) or larger / ≥ 17.7" (≥ 45 cm) minimum length.

Is Polystictus Corydoras peaceful?

Yes. Polystictus 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 Polystictus Corydoras?

Keep it between 20 to 25 °C.

Should Polystictus Corydoras be kept alone or in a group?

Polystictus Corydoras: Keep in a loose group of 6+.