Three-Lined Cory Catfish (Corydoras trilineatus)

The Three-Lined Cory Catfish is a peaceful and hardy bottom-dwelling species known for its intricate maze-like body pattern and active schooling behavior. Often mistaken for the Julii Cory, this attractive catfish is a popular choice for community and planted aquariums. When kept in groups, they display lively and social behavior while constantly exploring the aquarium floor.

Like most Corydoras species, the Three-Lined Cory prefers sand or smooth gravel substrate to protect its delicate barbels. It is an adaptable and beginner-friendly fish that readily accepts a variety of dry, frozen, and live foods, making it an excellent addition to peaceful community tanks.

What We Like About This Fish

• Peaceful and hardy addition to most community aquariums
• Beautiful maze-like body pattern
• Thrives in schools in planted aquariums
• Active and entertaining bottom-dwelling behavior

Recommended Tank Parameters

• Temperature: 22°–26°C (72°–79°F)
• pH: 6.0 – 7.5
• KH: 2 – 12 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 15 gallons (for a school of 6)

Care Guidelines

• Diet: High-quality flakes, sinking pellets and wafers, plus frozen or live foods such as bloodworms and tubifex
• Social Behavior: Peaceful — must be kept in groups of 6 or more
• Origin: Tank-bred (species native to South America)
• Average Adult Size: ~6 cm (2.4 inches)
• Average Purchase Size: ~2.5 cm (1 inch)
• Shrimp Safe: YES with adult shrimp (very small shrimp may be preyed upon)