How to Keep False Julii Corydoras
How to Keep False Julii Corydoras: Peaceful Bottom Dwellers for Community Tanks
False Julii Corydoras, also known as Corydoras trilineatus, are small, peaceful catfish that make an excellent addition to community aquariums. Often confused with the true Julii Cory, the False Julii is more commonly available in the hobby and just as charming, with a spotted body and a bold, horizontal stripe running down its side.
These Corys are social, hardy, and easy to care for — perfect for both beginner and seasoned fishkeepers looking for active bottom dwellers that help keep the tank clean.
Tank Setup
False Julii Corys do best in a well-established tank with a soft, sandy substrate that won’t damage their sensitive barbels. They love to sift through the sand for food, and rough gravel can lead to injury or infection.
A planted tank with driftwood, hiding spots, and leaf litter will help them feel secure. Moderate lighting and slow-moving water are ideal.
Tank size:
Minimum 20 gallons for a group
Water Parameters
These fish prefer clean, well-oxygenated water and are sensitive to poor water conditions. Always cycle the tank before introducing them, and aim for stable, tropical parameters.
Ideal conditions:
Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)
pH: 6.5–7.5
GH: 4–12 dGH
TDS: 150–250 ppm
Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
Weekly water changes (around 25–30%) are important to keep the substrate clean and the fish healthy.
Diet and Feeding
False Julii Corys are omnivores and bottom feeders. They’ll happily clean up leftover food but still need their own regular meals. A varied diet helps boost their coloration and energy levels.
Feed them:
Sinking catfish pellets or wafers
Frozen or live bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp
Blanched vegetables like zucchini or spinach (occasional treat)
Feed once or twice daily, preferably after lights out when they’re most active.
Social Behavior
Corydoras trilineatus are schooling fish and should always be kept in groups of at least 5–6 individuals. They’ll constantly swim together, rest side by side, and even “wink” their eyes by tilting their heads — a quirky and endearing behavior.
They’re completely peaceful and thrive in community tanks with similarly calm species.
Great tank mates include:
Tetras (Neon, Ember, Glowlight)
Dwarf Gouramis
Breeding Tips
Breeding False Julii Corys is possible in the home aquarium but may require a separate breeding setup. Condition the adults with protein-rich foods, then trigger spawning with a slightly cooler water change.
The female will lay eggs on glass or plant leaves. Remove adults afterward, and raise fry with powdered food or baby brine shrimp.
Final Thoughts
False Julii Corydoras are low-maintenance, social bottom dwellers that bring constant motion and personality to freshwater tanks. Their peaceful nature, charming patterns, and ability to thrive in community tanks make them an ideal choice for aquarists of any experience level.
