Corydoras

[Ajbolton]

I was wondering which corydoras if any would be ok in my 15G UK/19G US (dont know which one Im meant to use) tank. Eventually in my tank I plan on having 5 zebra danios, 5 harlequin rasbora and a few cherry shrimps.

Would getting a few corydoras be pushing the max fish limit?
And would any corydoras be compatable with shrimp - if not which should I get - shrimp or corydoras?

Would I be best going for pygmy corydoras? Or would I be ablee to get a different kind as I would prefer a bottom dweller and ive heard the pygmy cory is more of a mid level-er.

Any help is much appreciated thanks
Adam

edit: Also are there any specific requirements for keeping any corydoras? eg Do they NEED sand? Do they NEED bogwood? etc etc

edit: Also would I be best only getting 2 or 3 to lower bioload rather than 5+?

 

[eschaton]

In my experience, when dealing with small fish (under two inches) you can actually push the stocking up to two inches per gallon with no negative effects - especially if you have a planted tank and keep up with weekly water changes. Since your tank is roughly 18 USG, you could have up to 36 inches of fish, but currently have only 18.75.

There are actually three different dwarf Corydoras species. C hastatus and C pygmaeus are mid-water shoalers, but C habrosus is a typical bottom-dwelling Corydoras, and around the same size. I would get at least 6, though personally, I think ten would be fine in a tank of that size.

You could also get away with panda Corys, but make sure it's 4-5.

I would never suggest under four Corydoras for any species.

 

[Inchworm]

Hi Ajbolton

I wouldn't recommend adding C. pygmaeus or any other of the dwarf corys to that tank because they are rather delicate fish. A larger, more sturdy cory would be better. I would suggest getting a few C. aeneus bronze or C. trilineatus (usually sold a C. julii)

Sand is probably best for corys, but a very fine gravel is OK too. What you want to avoid is the coarse, pebble-like gravel.

 

[bigdave2009]

i think you are fine with getting some corys. I love them and they get a long with all fish. My favorite are the panda corys. I would make sure to get atleast 6 of any kind of corydora you get.