Hastatus Corydoras
 
Scientific Name: Corydoras hastatus
Overview
One of the smallest Corydoras species, Corydoras hastatus is a tiny, active, mid-water schooling catfish rather than a typical bottom-dweller. Peaceful, highly social, and perfect for nano softwater setups.
 
Natural Range
Region: South America
Origin: Paraguay, Guaporé, and upper Amazon drainages
Habitat: Shallow, slow-flowing creeks and forest streams rich in plants and leaf litter.
 
Description
Size: 2–3 cm (true nano Cory)
Body: Slender silver body
Markings: Black tail spot with white edging; subtle mid-body stripe
Sexing:
Females slightly rounder and larger
Males slimmer
 
Care Sheet
Water Parameters
Temperature: 22–28°C
pH: 6.0–7.4
Hardness: 1–10 dGH
Tank Size: 40–60 L+ (longer tanks preferred)
Flow: Gentle
Lighting: Low–moderate
 
Tank Setup
Keep in groups of 10–20+ for natural behaviour
Dense plants and floating cover
Fine sand substrate
Leaf litter optional for natural blackwater look
Open midwater area for schooling
 
Diet
Micro-omnivore:
Micro pellets
Crushed flake
Frozen cyclops, baby brine shrimp, daphnia
Live microworms or BBS for condition
 
Behaviour & Compatibility
Extremely peaceful nano species
School in the midwater, not bottom like most Corys
Great with small tetras, rasboras, small livebearers, and other nano catfish
Avoid large or boisterous tankmates
 
Breeding
Typical Corydoras T-pose spawning
Adhesive eggs placed on plant leaves
Remove adults if you want fry survival
Fry start on infusoria → baby brine shrimp