Napoensis Corydora

Napoensis Corydoras are small, peaceful bottom-dwelling catfish from South America, prized for their attractive patterning, active behaviour and manageable adult size. Their pale body is decorated with dark markings and spotting, giving them a distinctive appearance among the smaller Corydoras species.

Like other Corydoras, Napoensis are social fish that spend much of their time exploring the substrate with their sensitive barbels. They are particularly entertaining in groups, frequently swimming together before returning to the bottom to forage.

A fine sand substrate is ideal, allowing them to naturally sift through the substrate without damaging their barbels. Plants, driftwood and other décor provide additional shelter and help create a comfortable environment.

They are peaceful community fish and can be kept with small tetras, rasboras, peaceful livebearers and other non-aggressive species. Their relatively small size also makes them a good option for smaller community aquariums.

Quick Care Guide

• Scientific Name: Corydoras napoensis
• Common Name: Napoensis Corydoras, Napo Cory
• Family: Callichthyidae
• Type: Freshwater bottom-dwelling catfish
• Adult Size: Approximately 4–5 cm
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Care Level: Easy to Moderate
• Minimum Aquarium: 60 litres
• Temperature: 22–27°C
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
• Diet: Sinking pellets, wafers, frozen foods and live foods
• Tank Level: Bottom
• Group Size: 6 or more
• Lifespan: Approximately 5–8 years with good care
• Suitable For: Peaceful community and planted aquariums
• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel recommended

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Napoensis Corydoras should be kept together?

A group of six or more is recommended. They are social fish and generally become more confident and active when kept in groups.

Are Napoensis Corydoras suitable for beginners?

Yes. They are relatively easy to care for when provided with clean, stable water, appropriate food and suitable substrate.

What substrate is best for Napoensis Corydoras?

Fine sand is ideal. Smooth, rounded gravel can also be used, but sharp or abrasive gravel should be avoided because it can damage their barbels.

Do Napoensis Corydoras clean the aquarium?

They help consume food that reaches the bottom, but they are not a substitute for regular water changes and aquarium maintenance.

Can they be kept with shrimp?

Yes. They are peaceful and generally compatible with adult freshwater shrimp. Very small shrimp fry may occasionally be eaten while the Corydoras forage.

What should Napoensis Corydoras eat?

Provide quality sinking Corydoras pellets or wafers, supplemented with frozen or live foods such as bloodworms and baby brine shrimp.

Common Mistakes

• Keeping only one or two Corydoras.
• Using sharp or abrasive substrate.
• Assuming they can survive entirely on leftover food.
• Failing to provide sinking foods.
• Adding them to an uncycled aquarium.
• Keeping them with aggressive or highly competitive tankmates.