Pygmy Gastrodermus

Remarks: The pygmy Gastrodermus is a dwarf Corydoradinae that barely reaches 1" at full length, being tied with Gastrodermus hastatus for the smallest known species of Corydoradinae. Unlike most species of Corydoradinae, they are adapted to swimming slightly above the substrate rather than resting on the surface. They will often school with other small schooling species. Being so small, they tend to be more nervous and thus should be kept in groups of 8 or more. It was previously classified as Corydoras pygmaeus, but was reclassified as Gastrodermus pygmaeus upon publication of a phylogenomic analysis in 2024 that reclassified many species in the Corydoradinae subfamily.

  Corydoradinae are small, peaceful catfish that are active shoalers and will stay near conspecifics, making for a lovely sight. They feed by searching through sand with their barbels, making such a substrate necessary for their long-term health. Gravel substrates tend to be abrasive and damage the barbels, leading to infections and an inability to find food.

  While these friendly catfish are willing to swim with other species of Corydoradinae different from their own, this does not provide the same social need as being kept with members of their own species. Because of this, it is highly recommended to keep at least six of each species of Corydoradinae present in the aquarium and only mix species if one has the space to keep at least six of each.

  Corydoradinae are often looked at as "scavengers," but they should be treated in a similar fashion as the rest of your fish. They are omnivores and require a mixed diet. Sinking prepared foods are readily accepted, as are frozen and live foods such as brine shrimp, blackworms, and bloodworms.