Orange Venezuelan Cory

The Orange Venezuelan Cory (Corydoras venezuelanus) is a vibrant and energetic bottom-dweller, with intense, burnt-orange colouration that glows across its shoulders and back. Growing up to 5 cm long, they have a contrasting slate-grey patch along their flanks, making them one of the most colourful members of the Corydoras family. Native to the coastal rivers of Venezuela, they are as hardy as they are beautiful, spending their time playfully sifting through the substrate.

Keep the Orange Venezuelan Cory in groups of at least six, but we strongly suggest a school of 10 or more to see their most natural and active behaviour. They prefer well-oxygenated water with a pH of 6.0–7.5 and thrive in slightly warmer temperatures compared to other cory species. Because they have delicate whiskers used for finding food, a soft sand substrate is essential to prevent injury and keep them foraging happily.

Avoid housing your Orange Venezuelan Cory with aggressive bottom-dwellers or large fish that might mistake them for a snack. Since they are dedicated substrate foragers, try feeding sinking wafers and pellets that reach the bottom quickly before mid-water fish can intercept them. Their favourite meals include sinking catfish tablets, frozen bloodworms, and live tubifex worms, which help maintain their rich orange hues.