Albino Corydoras

About the Albino Corydoras

The Albino Corydoras is one of the most popular freshwater catfish in the aquarium hobby, loved for its peaceful temperament, active personality, and striking pale pink-white body with vibrant red eyes. This selectively bred albino form of the Bronze Corydoras (Corydoras aeneus) is an ideal bottom-dwelling fish for community and planted aquariums.

Albino Corydoras are highly social and should always be kept in groups of at least six. They spend their day actively searching the substrate for food, often swimming together in coordinated groups before darting to the surface to gulp air—a completely normal behaviour for Corydoras.

A soft sand substrate is highly recommended, allowing them to forage naturally without damaging their delicate barbels. Driftwood, plants, and shaded hiding places will help them feel secure and encourage natural behaviour.

Hardy, easy to care for, and compatible with almost all peaceful freshwater species, the Albino Corydoras is an excellent choice for beginners and experienced aquarists alike. They pair perfectly with Tetras, Rasboras, Gouramis, Rainbowfish, Angelfish, Dwarf Cichlids, and peaceful shrimp species.

Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name

Corydoras aeneus "Albino"

Common Name

Albino Corydoras

Origin

Captive-bred variety of a South American species

Adult Size

6–7 cm

Temperament

Peaceful

Diet

Omnivore

Minimum Tank Size

60 Litres

Temperature

22–28°C

pH

6.0–7.8

Water Hardness

2–15 dGH

Difficulty

Beginner

Lifespan

5–10 Years

Suitable For

Community aquariums, planted tanks, and shrimp-safe aquariums

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Albino Corydoras should I keep?

Albino Corydoras are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least six. Larger groups encourage natural behaviour and reduce stress.

What do Albino Corydoras eat?

They enjoy quality sinking pellets, Corydoras wafers, frozen bloodworms, blackworms, brine shrimp, and other sinking foods. They should not rely solely on leftover food.

Can Albino Corydoras live with shrimp?

Yes. They are completely peaceful and are excellent companions for Cherry Shrimp, Amano Shrimp, and other dwarf shrimp.

Why do Albino Corydoras swim to the surface?

This is normal behaviour. Corydoras occasionally gulp atmospheric air using their modified intestine, which helps them survive in low-oxygen environments.

Do Albino Corydoras need sand?

Yes. Fine sand is the preferred substrate, allowing them to forage naturally while protecting their sensitive barbels.

Common Mistakes

Keeping them alone

Albino Corydoras are highly social and should never be kept individually.

Using sharp gravel

Coarse substrates can damage their barbels and prevent natural feeding behaviour.

Assuming they only eat leftovers

They require dedicated sinking foods to remain healthy and should not be treated as a clean-up crew alone.

Poor water quality

Regular water changes and excellent filtration are essential for healthy Corydoras.

Keeping them with aggressive fish

Choose peaceful tank mates that won't bully these gentle bottom-dwelling catfish.