Leopard Corydoras - 2.8cm

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Corydoras julii
• Common Name: Leopard Corydoras (also called Julii Corydoras)
• Adult Size: 2–2.5 inches (5–6.5 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 5–7 years (up to 10 with excellent care)
• Habitat: Native to eastern Brazil, typically found in clear, slow-moving creeks and small rivers with sandy or muddy bottoms and plenty of vegetation

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (for a small group; must be kept in groups of at least 5)
• Ideal Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)
• pH Range: 6.0–7.5
• Water Hardness: 2–12 dGH
• Temperament: Very peaceful, shy, and social; perfect for community tanks with other gentle species

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous: Yes

  • Accepts sinking pellets and wafers formulated for bottom feeders\
  • Enjoys frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms
  • Will scavenge uneaten food but still needs direct feeding for proper nutrition
  • Occasional blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber) are beneficial

Appearance

• Light tan or silvery body with distinct black spots and lines, often appearing in a net-like pattern
• Horizontal black line often runs along the body behind the gills
• Clear fins with subtle spotting; smaller and more delicately patterned than some other Cory species

Distinctive Features

• Often confused with Corydoras trilineatus (False Julii); true Julii have fine, distinct spots, not reticulated patterns
• Has a shorter snout and more petite frame than Bronze or Sterbai Corys
• Constantly active foragers—seen sifting sand and darting to the surface for air (they are facultative air breathers)
• Best kept in a soft substrate (sand) to protect their sensitive barbels