Emerald Cory Catfish | Corydoras splendens- Tank Bred

The Emerald Cory Catfish (Brochis splendens), also known as the Emerald Green Cory, is a larger Cory-like catfish admired for its brilliant metallic green coloration that shimmers under aquarium lighting. Its reflective emerald body and active behavior make it a striking addition to community aquariums.

Native to South America, Emerald Corys inhabit slow-moving rivers and flooded forest areas with sandy substrates and dense vegetation. In the aquarium, they thrive in well-maintained planted tanks with soft substrate and stable water conditions.

Although similar in behavior to Corydoras species, Emerald Corys tend to grow larger and display slightly stronger swimming activity along the bottom of the aquarium.

Why Aquarists Love Emerald Cory

• Stunning metallic emerald green coloration
• Peaceful and hardy bottom-dwelling fish
• Active scavenger that helps clean leftover food
• Excellent for planted and community aquariums

Behavior & Compatibility

Emerald Cory Catfish are peaceful schooling fish and should ideally be kept in groups of 4–6 or more.

Suitable tank mates include:

• Tetras
• Rasboras
• Angelfish
• Dwarf cichlids
• Other peaceful community fish

They are generally safe with shrimp and most peaceful invertebrates.

Ideal Aquarium Setup

Because Emerald Corys spend most of their time on the bottom, substrate choice is important.

Recommended aquarium features include:

• Fine sand or smooth gravel substrate
• Live plants and driftwood
• Plenty of open bottom space
• Gentle to moderate water flow

Avoid sharp or rough gravel that may damage their sensitive barbels.

Diet and Feeding

Emerald Cory Catfish are omnivorous scavengers and accept a wide range of foods.

Recommended foods include:

• Sinking pellets or wafers
• High-quality flakes
• Frozen bloodworms
• Brine shrimp or other small live foods

A varied diet helps maintain healthy growth and coloration.

Recommended Tank Parameters

Temperature: 72 – 79°F (22 – 26°C)
pH: 6.0 – 7.5
KH: 2 – 12 dKH
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons

Size Information

Average Adult Size:
3.5 – 4 inches (9 – 10 cm)

Typical Sale Size:
1.5 – 2 inches (3.8 – 5 cm)

Origin

The Emerald Cory Catfish (Brochis splendens) originates from South America, where it inhabits slow-moving freshwater rivers and tributaries throughout the Amazon basin.

Add shimmering color and lively bottom activity to your aquarium with the Emerald Cory Catfish, a beautiful and hardy species perfect for freshwater community aquariums. As a dedicated aquarist shopping at the Betta USA premium aquatic store, secure your specimens today, and check back often as we unveil our exclusive selections every week!