Bronze Cory (Corydoras aeneus) is a beginner-level freshwater fish that needs at least 20 gallons and 72-79°F. A hardy, long-lived cory that tolerates a wide range of water. A reliable clean-up crew member for community tanks.

Care facts at a glance

Scientific nameCorydoras aeneus
FamilyCallichthyidae
OriginSouth America
Adult size2.5 in
Minimum tank20 gallons
Temperature72-79°F
pH6.0-8.0
TemperamentPeaceful
Social behaviorGroups, keep 6+
Swim levelBottom
DifficultyBeginner
DietSinking pellets, wafers, frozen foods
Typical lifespan5-10 years

Quick tips

  • Keep 6 or more.
  • Feed sinking foods after lights dim.

San Diego water

Tolerates San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water (pH roughly 7.6-8.6) with slow acclimation and a conditioner that handles chloramine. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.

Before you buy

Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.

Find it at Pet Zone

Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.

Pet Zone Convoy

4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm

Aquascaping, planted tanks

Pet Zone Mid-City

4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm

Monster fish, koi