Orange Venezuelan Corydoras

Orange Venezuelan Corydoras (often sold as Venezuela Orange Cory or Corydoras aeneus “Venezuela”) are a popular, colorful variant of the Bronze Cory.

Overview

• Scientific name: Corydoras aeneus (Venezuela Orange strain)
• Origin: Venezuela (Orinoco basin region)
• Size: ~2–2.5 inches (5–6 cm)
• Lifespan: 5–10 years with good care
• Temperament: Peaceful, social, active bottom-dweller

Appearance

• Bright orange to copper body with a metallic sheen
• Darker dorsal area and translucent fins
• Much more vivid than standard bronze corys, especially when well-fed and settled

Tank Requirements

• Tank size: 20 gallons minimum (bigger is better for groups)
• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel (very important to protect barbels)
• Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
• Water flow: Gentle to moderate
• Décor: Plants, driftwood, leaf litter, and hiding spots

Social Needs

• Must be kept in groups of 6 or more (the more, the better)
• They become shy and stressed when kept alone or in small numbers

Diet

• Omnivorous bottom-feeders:
  
• Sinking pellets or wafers
• Frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia)
• Occasional live foods
• They do not live off leftovers alone—target feeding is important

Tankmates

• Peaceful community fish such as:
  
• Tetras, rasboras
• Small gouramis
• Dwarf cichlids (non-aggressive)
• Other Corydoras species (similar size)