📖 Overview

Corydoras julii (often called Julii Corydoras) are peaceful, small freshwater catfish loved for their intricate spotted patterns and active schooling behavior. Native to slow-moving tributaries in the Amazon basin, these bottom-dwellers are ideal for community aquariums. They are hardy, social, and entertaining to watch as they sift through substrate in groups. Proper water quality and a soft substrate are essential for their sensitive barbels.

🔍 Quick Facts

• Latin Name: Corydoras julii

• Difficulty: Easy–Intermediate

• Behavior: Peaceful, schooling

• Environment: Freshwater tropical

• Diet: Omnivore

• Origin: Amazon River Basin (South America)

• Adult Size: 5–6 cm (2–2.5 in)

• Lifespan: 5–7 years (sometimes longer with excellent care)

🏠 Housing Requirements

• Tank Size: Minimum 40–50 L (10–15 gal) for a small group

  • Best kept in groups of 6 or more

• Tank Type: Soft, sandy substrate; plenty of floor space

• Substrate: Fine sand ONLY — sharp gravel damages their barbels

• Décor: Driftwood, smooth stones, caves, and live plants

• Water Flow: Gentle; avoid strong current

• Cleaning: Regular water changes (25–40% weekly)

🌡️ Temperature & Water Parameters

• Temperature: 22–26°C (72–79°F)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Hardness: Soft–moderately soft water

• Lighting: Low–moderate; they prefer dimly lit tanks

• Water Quality:

  • Ammonia: 0

  • Nitrite: 0

  • Nitrate: Under 20–30 ppm

🍽️ Feeding

• Diet:

  • Sinking catfish pellets

  • Frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia)

  • High-quality algae wafers

  • Occasional live food

• Feeding Schedule:

  • Once or twice per day

  • Ensure food reaches the bottom—Corydoras rarely eat from the surface

• Tip: Provide a variety of foods for best health and coloration

⚕️ Health & Safety

• Handling: Avoid netting—Corydoras have sharp pectoral spines that can catch in nets

• Common Issues:

  • Barbel erosion (from poor water quality or rough substrate)

  • Gill irritation from high toxins

  • Stress if kept alone or in too-small groups

• Tankmates:

  • Peaceful fish such as tetras, rasboras, gouramis, and other small community species

  • Avoid large or aggressive fish

🚫 Important Notes

• We do not ship live animals

• You may order online and choose Click & Collect

• We will hold your Corydoras for you until pickup