Gold Green Catfish | Corydoras melanotaenia

The Gold Green Cory Catfish (Corydoras melanotaenia) is a beautiful and peaceful bottom-dwelling catfish admired for its metallic green to golden sheen along the body. This species belongs to the popular Corydoras family and is well known for its active schooling behavior and gentle temperament, making it an excellent addition to community aquariums.

Native to South America, Gold Green Corydoras inhabit slow-moving rivers and tributaries with sandy substrates and dense vegetation. In the aquarium, they thrive in well-planted tanks with soft substrate and stable water conditions.

Like most Corydoras species, they are social fish that feel most comfortable when kept in groups, often seen exploring the aquarium floor together in search of food.

Why Aquarists Love Gold Green Cory Catfish

• Beautiful metallic green and gold coloration
• Peaceful and hardy bottom-dwelling fish
• Active schooling behavior
• Ideal for planted and community aquariums

Behavior & Compatibility

Gold Green Cory Catfish are very peaceful schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least 6 or more.

Suitable tank mates include:

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

They are generally safe with shrimp and other small invertebrates.

Ideal Aquarium Setup

Because Corydoras 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 hiding places
• Gentle water flow

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

Diet and Feeding

Gold Green Cory Catfish are omnivorous scavengers and accept a wide variety of foods.

Recommended foods include:

• Sinking pellets or wafers
• High-quality flakes
• Frozen bloodworms or brine shrimp
• Small live foods

A varied diet helps maintain health and coloration.

Recommended Tank Parameters

Temperature: 72 – 79°F (22 – 26°C)
pH: 6.0 – 7.5
KH: 2 – 10 dKH
Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons for a school

Size Information

Average Adult Size:
2 – 2.5 inches (5 – 6 cm)

Typical Sale Size:
1 – 1.5 inches (2.5 – 3.8 cm)

Origin

The Gold Green Cory Catfish (Corydoras melanotaenia) originates from South America, where it inhabits slow-moving freshwater streams and river systems.

Add peaceful activity and shimmering color to your aquarium with the Gold Green Cory Catfish, a hardy and social bottom-dwelling fish perfect for planted freshwater aquariums. As your premier destination for elite aquatic life, ensure these stunning scavengers receive the finest care available. Discover these and our exclusive, premium livestock additions updated weekly only at Betta USA, or browse our specialized selection of Corydoras for more bottom-dwelling excellence.