Smudge Spot Corydoras (Corydoras similis)
The Smudge Spot Corydoras is a peaceful and highly active bottom-dwelling catfish known for its soft silver body and distinctive dark “smudge” marking near the dorsal area. This attractive Corydoras species is perfect for planted community aquariums, where its constant foraging behavior helps keep the substrate clean while adding personality and movement to the lower levels of the tank. Hardy and social, Smudge Spot Corydoras are excellent choices for both beginner and experienced aquarists.
Approximate Shipping Size: 0.75–1 inch
Appearance
Smudge Spot Corydoras display a light silver to pale gray base coloration accented by subtle speckling and a characteristic dark blotch along the upper body. Their rounded fins and armored plating give them the classic Corydoras look, while their gentle movements and group behavior make them a favorite among aquascapers seeking peaceful bottom dwellers.
Temperament & Behavior
These Corydoras are extremely peaceful and thrive when kept in groups of at least 6 individuals. They are active scavengers that spend most of their time exploring the substrate together. Their calm temperament makes them ideal companions for small schooling fish and other gentle community species.
Care Requirements
Smudge Spot Corydoras prefer soft substrate such as sand or smooth gravel to protect their sensitive barbels. A well-planted aquarium with shaded areas, driftwood, and open bottom space helps them feel secure and display natural behaviors.
Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum
Temperature: 72–78°F
pH: 6.0–7.5
Hardness: Soft to moderate
Aquascape: Sand substrate, plants, leaf litter, driftwood, gentle flow
Tank Mates
Great tank mates include tetras, rasboras, dwarf rainbowfish, peaceful gouramis, small livebearers, shrimp, and other non-aggressive community fish. Avoid large aggressive cichlids or fish that may outcompete them for food.
Diet & Feeding
Smudge Spot Corydoras are omnivorous scavengers that should be fed a varied diet including sinking pellets, wafers, frozen foods, and occasional live foods. Supplement with bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia to maintain strong health and coloration.
Quick Facts
Scientific Name: Corydoras similis
Common Name: Smudge Spot Corydoras
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful, Social
Diet: Omnivore
Max Size: ~2–2.5 inches
Tank Level: Bottom
Behavior: Schooling Bottom Dweller
The Smudge Spot Corydoras is a peaceful and highly active bottom-dwelling catfish known for its soft silver body and distinctive dark “smudge” marking near the dorsal area. This attractive Corydoras species is perfect for planted community aquariums, where its constant foraging behavior helps keep the substrate clean while adding personality and movement to the lower levels of the tank. Hardy and social, Smudge Spot Corydoras are excellent choices for both beginner and experienced aquarists.
Approximate Shipping Size: 0.75–1 inch
Appearance
Smudge Spot Corydoras display a light silver to pale gray base coloration accented by subtle speckling and a characteristic dark blotch along the upper body. Their rounded fins and armored plating give them the classic Corydoras look, while their gentle movements and group behavior make them a favorite among aquascapers seeking peaceful bottom dwellers.
Temperament & Behavior
These Corydoras are extremely peaceful and thrive when kept in groups of at least 6 individuals. They are active scavengers that spend most of their time exploring the substrate together. Their calm temperament makes them ideal companions for small schooling fish and other gentle community species.
Care Requirements
Smudge Spot Corydoras prefer soft substrate such as sand or smooth gravel to protect their sensitive barbels. A well-planted aquarium with shaded areas, driftwood, and open bottom space helps them feel secure and display natural behaviors.
Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum
Temperature: 72–78°F
pH: 6.0–7.5
Hardness: Soft to moderate
Aquascape: Sand substrate, plants, leaf litter, driftwood, gentle flow
Tank Mates
Great tank mates include tetras, rasboras, dwarf rainbowfish, peaceful gouramis, small livebearers, shrimp, and other non-aggressive community fish. Avoid large aggressive cichlids or fish that may outcompete them for food.
Diet & Feeding
Smudge Spot Corydoras are omnivorous scavengers that should be fed a varied diet including sinking pellets, wafers, frozen foods, and occasional live foods. Supplement with bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia to maintain strong health and coloration.
Quick Facts
Scientific Name: Corydoras similis
Common Name: Smudge Spot Corydoras
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful, Social
Diet: Omnivore
Max Size: ~2–2.5 inches
Tank Level: Bottom
Behavior: Schooling Bottom Dweller

