Corydoras sodalis is a peaceful, medium‑small Corydoras species prized for its elegant net‑like (reticulated) black pattern over a silvery body. It’s commonly called the False Network Cory, because it resembles Corydoras reticulatus but lacks that species’ bold dorsal fin blotch. 

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Identification

• Body pattern: Fine black “network” or swirling reticulated pattern
• Body color: Pale silver to light olive
• Dorsal fin: No large black patch (key ID trait vs reticulatus)
• Caudal fin: Dark banding or striping

This subtler patterning is why it’s referred to as false network rather than true network Cory. 

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Scientific & Trade Names

• Scientific name: Corydoras sodalis
• Common names: False Network Cory, Network Cory
• Sometimes sold as: Brochis sodalis (older or alternative classification used by exporters) 

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Natural Range

• Countries: Brazil, Peru, Colombia
• Habitat: Shallow Amazon tributaries, floodplains, and slow‑moving creeks
• Substrate: Sand, fine silt, leaf litter

They naturally live in large shoals in calm, often tea‑stained waters rich in organic debris. 

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Size & Longevity

• Adult size: ~4–5 cm (1.6–2.0 in)
• Lifespan: 8–12 years with good care

They stay smaller than most laser or bronze Cory species, making them ideal for mid‑sized community tanks. 

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Ideal Water Parameters

Parameter	Range
Temperature	21–26 °C (70–79 °F)
pH	6.0–7.5
Hardness	Soft to medium
Flow	Low to moderate

Clean, oxygenated water is more important than exact numbers. 

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Tank Setup

• Minimum tank: 15–20 gal (long footprint preferred)
• Group size: 6+ (social shoaling species)
• Substrate: Fine sand or very smooth gravel (barbel safety)
• Décor: Driftwood, leaf litter, smooth stones
• Lighting: Low to moderate

They appreciate shaded areas and will display more natural behavior in darker, naturalistic layouts. 

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Diet

Omnivorous bottom‑feeder

• Sinking pellets or wafers
• Frozen/live foods: bloodworms, daphnia, brine shrimp
• Feed after lights dim to ensure they get food in community tanks

They are often mislabeled as “clean‑up fish” but require targeted feeding to thrive. 

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Temperament & Compatibility

• Temperament: Very peaceful
• Best tankmates:
  Tetras, rasboras, dwarf gourami, peaceful dwarf cichlids, other Corydoras
• Avoid: Aggressive fish, sharp substrates

They coexist well with other Cory species but socialize best in same‑species groups. 

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Breeding Notes

• Successfully bred in aquariums
• Spawning usually triggered by:
  • Cooler water changes
  • Increased dissolved oxygen
• Classic Corydoras T‑position spawning
• Eggs laid on glass, plants, or décor

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