{"product_id":"smudge-spot-cory-catfish-corydoras-similis","title":"Smudge Spot Cory Catfish – Corydoras Similis","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"tropicflow-product-description\" style=\"max-width: 920px; margin: 0 auto; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.7; color: #333;\"\u003e\n\n  \u003c!-- QUICK ANSWER --\u003e\n  \u003cdiv style=\"background: #f5faf8; border-left: 4px solid #016141; padding: 18px 20px; margin: 0 0 28px 0; border-radius: 4px;\"\u003e\n    \u003cstrong style=\"color: #016141; font-size: 18px;\"\u003eQuick Answer:\u003c\/strong\u003e\n    \u003cp style=\"margin: 8px 0 0 0;\"\u003e\n      The \u003cstrong\u003eSmudge Spot Cory Catfish (Corydoras similis)\u003c\/strong\u003e is a peaceful\n      South American Cory known for its pale silver-to-pinkish body, fine speckling,\n      and distinctive \u003cstrong\u003esoft blue-gray “smudge” near the base of the tail\u003c\/strong\u003e.\n      Native to the Madeira River basin of Brazil, this attractive Cory is best kept\n      in groups of \u003cstrong\u003e6 or more\u003c\/strong\u003e in a mature freshwater aquarium with\n      fine sand, clean water, gentle cover, and peaceful tank mates.\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n  \u003c!-- INTRO --\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    The \u003cstrong\u003eSmudge Spot Cory Catfish (Corydoras similis)\u003c\/strong\u003e is a subtly\n    beautiful Cory-type catfish from the Madeira River basin of Brazil. Rather than\n    relying on bold stripes or bright colors, this species stands out through a soft\n    combination of fine body speckling, silver-beige coloration, and a distinctive\n    diffuse marking near the tail.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    Also known as the \u003cstrong\u003eSmudge Spot Cory\u003c\/strong\u003e,\n    \u003cstrong\u003eSmudge Spot Corydoras\u003c\/strong\u003e, or occasionally the\n    \u003cstrong\u003eViolet Cory\u003c\/strong\u003e, this peaceful bottom-dwelling catfish can display\n    a soft pink, lilac, or violet sheen under aquarium lighting.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    Its signature marking is located on the \u003cstrong\u003ecaudal peduncle\u003c\/strong\u003e near\n    the base of the tail. Unlike Cory species with a sharply defined black tail spot,\n    the marking on \u003cem\u003eCorydoras similis\u003c\/em\u003e appears softer, diffuse, and slightly\n    bluish-gray—almost like ink gently smudged across the body.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    \u003cstrong\u003eTaxonomy note:\u003c\/strong\u003e This species was originally described and remains\n    widely known in the aquarium hobby as \u003cem\u003eCorydoras similis\u003c\/em\u003e. Under the\n    modern Corydoradinae classification, the accepted scientific combination is\n    \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eHoplisoma simile\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e. Both names refer to the fish commonly\n    sold as the Smudge Spot Cory.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003c!-- INFORMATION TABLE --\u003e\n  \u003ch2 style=\"color: #016141; font-size: 24px; margin-top: 34px;\"\u003e\n    Smudge Spot Cory Catfish Care Information\n  \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n  \u003cdiv style=\"overflow-x: auto; margin: 18px 0 30px 0;\"\u003e\n    \u003ctable style=\"width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; min-width: 520px;\"\u003e\n      \u003ctbody\u003e\n\n        \u003ctr\u003e\n          \u003cth style=\"background: #016141; color: #fff; text-align: left; padding: 12px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd; width: 38%;\"\u003e\n            Care Requirement\n          \u003c\/th\u003e\n          \u003cth style=\"background: #016141; color: #fff; text-align: left; padding: 12px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\n            Smudge Spot Cory Information\n          \u003c\/th\u003e\n        \u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n        \u003ctr\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon Name\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\n            Smudge Spot Cory, Smudge Spot Cory Catfish, Violet Cory\n          \u003c\/td\u003e\n        \u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n        \u003ctr style=\"background: #f8f8f8;\"\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eScientific \/ Trade Name\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\n            \u003cem\u003eCorydoras similis\u003c\/em\u003e\n          \u003c\/td\u003e\n        \u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n        \u003ctr\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCurrent Scientific Name\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\n            \u003cem\u003eHoplisoma simile\u003c\/em\u003e\n          \u003c\/td\u003e\n        \u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n        \u003ctr style=\"background: #f8f8f8;\"\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAdult Size\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\n            Approximately 1.5–2.4 inches\n          \u003c\/td\u003e\n        \u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n        \u003ctr\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\n            70–81°F (21–27°C)\n          \u003c\/td\u003e\n        \u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n        \u003ctr style=\"background: #f8f8f8;\"\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003epH Range\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\n            5.6–7.0\n          \u003c\/td\u003e\n        \u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n        \u003ctr\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater Hardness\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\n            Soft to Moderately Hard\n          \u003c\/td\u003e\n        \u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n        \u003ctr style=\"background: #f8f8f8;\"\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRecommended Tank Size\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\n            15–20+ Gallons Recommended\n          \u003c\/td\u003e\n        \u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n        \u003ctr\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRecommended Group Size\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\n            6+ Recommended\n          \u003c\/td\u003e\n        \u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n        \u003ctr style=\"background: #f8f8f8;\"\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperament\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\n            Peaceful \u0026amp; Social\n          \u003c\/td\u003e\n        \u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n        \u003ctr\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDiet\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\n            Omnivore\n          \u003c\/td\u003e\n        \u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n        \u003ctr style=\"background: #f8f8f8;\"\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTank Level\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\n            Bottom Dweller\n          \u003c\/td\u003e\n        \u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n        \u003ctr\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCare Level\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\n            Beginner to Intermediate\n          \u003c\/td\u003e\n        \u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n        \u003ctr style=\"background: #f8f8f8;\"\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n          \u003ctd style=\"padding: 11px 14px; border: 1px solid #ddd;\"\u003e\n            Madeira River Basin, Brazil\n          \u003c\/td\u003e\n        \u003c\/tr\u003e\n\n      \u003c\/tbody\u003e\n    \u003c\/table\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n  \u003c!-- APPEARANCE --\u003e\n  \u003ch2 style=\"color: #016141; font-size: 24px; margin-top: 34px;\"\u003e\n    What Does a Smudge Spot Cory Catfish Look Like?\n  \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    The \u003cstrong\u003eSmudge Spot Cory\u003c\/strong\u003e has a pale cream, silver-beige,\n    pinkish-gray, or lightly olive body covered with fine dark speckling.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    In good aquarium lighting, some individuals may display subtle\n    \u003cstrong\u003epink, lavender, violet, or blue-gray iridescence\u003c\/strong\u003e across\n    the sides of the body.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    The species' signature feature is a diffuse dark marking around the\n    \u003cstrong\u003ecaudal peduncle\u003c\/strong\u003e immediately before the tail fin.\n    Rather than appearing as a sharp black spot, the marking has soft edges\n    and a blue-gray appearance, giving the impression of a gently\n    \u003cstrong\u003esmudged patch of color\u003c\/strong\u003e.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    Individual fish can vary in the size and intensity of this marking,\n    especially as they mature or adjust to new aquarium conditions.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003c!-- SMUDGE FEATURE --\u003e\n  \u003ch2 style=\"color: #016141; font-size: 24px; margin-top: 34px;\"\u003e\n    Why Is It Called the Smudge Spot Cory?\n  \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    The common name \u003cstrong\u003eSmudge Spot Cory\u003c\/strong\u003e comes directly from\n    the diffuse marking near the base of the tail.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    Unlike a sharply defined circular black spot, the marking on\n    \u003cem\u003eCorydoras similis\u003c\/em\u003e appears blurred at the edges and can have\n    a distinctive blue-gray or violet tone.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cdiv style=\"background: #f5faf8; border-left: 4px solid #016141; padding: 18px 20px; margin: 26px 0;\"\u003e\n    \u003cstrong style=\"color: #016141;\"\u003eSmudge Spot Feature:\u003c\/strong\u003e\n    \u003cp style=\"margin: 7px 0 0 0;\"\u003e\n      Look for a \u003cstrong\u003esoft, diffuse blue-gray marking near the tail\u003c\/strong\u003e\n      rather than a sharply defined black spot. This “smudged” appearance is\n      one of the most useful visual clues when identifying\n      \u003cem\u003eCorydoras similis\u003c\/em\u003e.\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n  \u003c!-- SIMILIS VS CAUDIMACULATUS --\u003e\n  \u003ch2 style=\"color: #016141; font-size: 24px; margin-top: 34px;\"\u003e\n    Smudge Spot Cory vs. Tail Spot Cory\n  \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    The \u003cstrong\u003eSmudge Spot Cory (Corydoras similis)\u003c\/strong\u003e is sometimes\n    confused with the \u003cstrong\u003eTail Spot Cory (Corydoras caudimaculatus)\u003c\/strong\u003e\n    because both species have a dark marking near the tail.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    The most useful visual difference is the shape and definition of the marking.\n    \u003cem\u003eCorydoras caudimaculatus\u003c\/em\u003e typically has a\n    \u003cstrong\u003edarker, sharply defined black spot\u003c\/strong\u003e on the caudal peduncle.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    The marking on the Smudge Spot Cory is more diffuse, softer at the edges,\n    and often appears \u003cstrong\u003eblue-gray rather than solid black\u003c\/strong\u003e.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    Individual variation can occur, so identification should consider overall\n    body shape, coloration, and reliable provenance rather than relying on\n    one feature alone.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003c!-- OTHER SIMILAR CORYS --\u003e\n  \u003ch2 style=\"color: #016141; font-size: 24px; margin-top: 34px;\"\u003e\n    Corydoras Similis vs. Other Similar Cory Catfish\n  \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    Several Cory species can appear superficially similar to\n    \u003cstrong\u003eCorydoras similis\u003c\/strong\u003e, including\n    \u003cem\u003eCorydoras guapore\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eCorydoras ourastigma\u003c\/em\u003e,\n    \u003cem\u003eCorydoras caudimaculatus\u003c\/em\u003e, and \u003cem\u003eCorydoras spectabilis\u003c\/em\u003e.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    \u003cstrong\u003eCorydoras guapore\u003c\/strong\u003e has a noticeably rounder body and\n    spends more time swimming above the substrate.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    \u003cstrong\u003eCorydoras ourastigma\u003c\/strong\u003e is easily distinguished by its\n    considerably longer snout, while \u003cstrong\u003eCorydoras spectabilis\u003c\/strong\u003e\n    grows larger and develops stronger spotting across much of the body.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    These subtle identification differences are one reason the Smudge Spot Cory\n    remains an interesting species for Cory enthusiasts.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003c!-- BEHAVIOR --\u003e\n  \u003ch2 style=\"color: #016141; font-size: 24px; margin-top: 34px;\"\u003e\n    Smudge Spot Cory Behavior \u0026amp; Group Size\n  \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    Smudge Spot Corys are\n    \u003cstrong\u003epeaceful, social bottom-dwelling fish\u003c\/strong\u003e and should not\n    be kept alone.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    We recommend maintaining at least\n    \u003cstrong\u003e6 Smudge Spot Cory Catfish\u003c\/strong\u003e together. In a proper group,\n    they become more confident and frequently forage, rest, and explore\n    together.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    Larger groups can display especially interesting social behavior when\n    aquarium size, filtration, and available bottom space allow.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    Like other Cory-type catfish, Smudge Spot Corys may occasionally make a\n    rapid trip to the surface to gulp atmospheric air before returning to the\n    aquarium floor. Occasional surface visits are normal Cory behavior.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003c!-- TANK SETUP --\u003e\n  \u003ch2 style=\"color: #016141; font-size: 24px; margin-top: 34px;\"\u003e\n    Ideal Aquarium Setup for Smudge Spot Cory Catfish\n  \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    An aquarium around \u003cstrong\u003e15–20 gallons or larger\u003c\/strong\u003e can provide\n    suitable space for a small group, although larger aquariums provide more\n    usable bottom area and additional water stability.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    A \u003cstrong\u003efine sand substrate\u003c\/strong\u003e is ideal. Smooth rounded fine gravel\n    may also be used if maintained carefully, but sharp or abrasive substrate\n    should be avoided.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    Smudge Spot Corys use sensitive barbels around their mouths while searching\n    for food, and clean substrate is important for maintaining healthy barbels\n    and overall condition.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    Live plants, driftwood, smooth stones, shaded areas, and dried leaf litter\n    can provide shelter while leaving open sand areas available for group foraging.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003c!-- NATURAL HABITAT --\u003e\n  \u003ch2 style=\"color: #016141; font-size: 24px; margin-top: 34px;\"\u003e\n    Natural Habitat of the Smudge Spot Cory\n  \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    \u003cstrong\u003eHoplisoma simile\u003c\/strong\u003e is native to the\n    \u003cstrong\u003eMadeira River basin in Brazil\u003c\/strong\u003e.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    The species is associated with small tributaries, creeks, pools, and\n    seasonally flooded forest habitats. These environments may contain\n    sand, submerged wood, roots, accumulated leaves, and tannin-stained water.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    A natural-style aquarium using sand, driftwood, dried leaves, and subdued\n    lighting can create an attractive environment inspired by these habitats.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003c!-- WATER --\u003e\n  \u003ch2 style=\"color: #016141; font-size: 24px; margin-top: 34px;\"\u003e\n    Smudge Spot Cory Water Parameters\n  \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    Smudge Spot Cory Catfish generally do well at temperatures around\n    \u003cstrong\u003e70–81°F (21–27°C)\u003c\/strong\u003e with a pH of approximately\n    \u003cstrong\u003e5.6–7.0\u003c\/strong\u003e.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    More important than constantly adjusting the aquarium to reach an exact\n    number is maintaining \u003cstrong\u003eclean, stable water conditions\u003c\/strong\u003e.\n    Keep Smudge Spot Corys in a fully cycled aquarium with appropriate filtration,\n    good oxygenation, and regular water changes.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    Ammonia and nitrite should remain at zero. This species can be sensitive\n    to deteriorating water conditions and dirty substrate, so consistent\n    aquarium maintenance is important.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003c!-- DIET --\u003e\n  \u003ch2 style=\"color: #016141; font-size: 24px; margin-top: 34px;\"\u003e\n    What Do Smudge Spot Cory Catfish Eat?\n  \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    \u003cstrong\u003eSmudge Spot Corys are omnivorous foragers\u003c\/strong\u003e and are generally\n    easy to feed when provided with a varied diet.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    High-quality sinking pellets, tablets, or wafers can form the foundation\n    of their aquarium diet. Supplement prepared foods with appropriately sized\n    frozen or live foods such as:\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cul style=\"padding-left: 22px;\"\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eBloodworms\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eBrine shrimp\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eDaphnia\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eTubifex\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eBlackworms\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eOther appropriately sized sinking foods\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    A varied diet helps support healthy growth, body condition, activity,\n    breeding condition, and natural coloration.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cdiv style=\"background: #fff8e8; border-left: 4px solid #d49a17; padding: 16px 18px; margin: 20px 0;\"\u003e\n    \u003cstrong\u003eImportant:\u003c\/strong\u003e Smudge Spot Corys should not be purchased\n    simply as aquarium “cleaner fish.” Although they naturally forage along\n    the substrate, they require intentional feeding with a complete and\n    nutritious diet. Cory catfish are not a substitute for regular aquarium\n    cleaning, substrate maintenance, and water changes.\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n  \u003c!-- TANK MATES --\u003e\n  \u003ch2 style=\"color: #016141; font-size: 24px; margin-top: 34px;\"\u003e\n    Smudge Spot Cory Tank Mates\n  \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    The peaceful temperament of the\n    \u003cstrong\u003eSmudge Spot Cory Catfish\u003c\/strong\u003e makes it suitable for many\n    freshwater community aquariums.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    Potential tank mates may include peaceful tetras, rasboras, pencilfish,\n    peaceful livebearers, small gouramis, compatible dwarf cichlids,\n    other suitable Cory species, and other non-aggressive freshwater fish\n    with overlapping temperature and water requirements.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003cp\u003e\n    Avoid large predatory fish, aggressive bottom dwellers, and highly\n    competitive species that may chase, intimidate, or prevent the Smudge\n    Spot Corys from receiving enough food.\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n  \u003c!-- WHY SIMILIS --\u003e\n  \u003ch2 style=\"color: #016141; font-size: 24px; margin-top: 34px;\"\u003e\n    Why Choose Smudge Spot Cory Catfish?\n  \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n  \u003cul style=\"padding-left: 22px;\"\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDistinctive blue-gray smudge near the tail\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSubtle silver, pink, and violet body tones\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eFine peppered body pattern\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003ePeaceful temperament for community aquariums\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eManageable adult size\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eActive and entertaining bottom-foraging behavior\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eExcellent choice for planted or natural-style freshwater aquariums\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eSocial behavior when maintained in a proper group\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003eInteresting species for Cory enthusiasts and collectors\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n  \u003c!-- IMPORTANT BEFORE BUYING --\u003e\n  \u003cdiv style=\"background: #f5faf8; border: 1px solid #d8e8e2; padding: 20px; margin: 30px 0; border-radius: 5px;\"\u003e\n    \u003ch2 style=\"color: #016141; font-size: 21px; margin: 0 0 10px 0;\"\u003e\n      Before Buying Smudge Spot Cory Catfish\n    \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n    \u003cp style=\"margin: 0;\"\u003e\n      Smudge Spot Corys are social fish and should not be kept alone.\n      Plan to keep \u003cstrong\u003e6 or more\u003c\/strong\u003e and make sure your aquarium\n      is fully cycled before introducing them. Provide fine sand or smooth\n      substrate, peaceful tank mates, clean stable water, regular maintenance,\n      shaded cover, and enough horizontal bottom space for the group to\n      comfortably explore and forage.\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n  \u003c!-- FAQ --\u003e\n  \u003ch2 style=\"color: #016141; font-size: 24px; margin-top: 34px;\"\u003e\n    Smudge Spot Cory Catfish FAQ\n  \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n  \u003cdetails style=\"border-bottom: 1px solid #ddd; padding: 13px 0;\"\u003e\n    \u003csummary style=\"cursor: pointer; font-weight: 700; color: #016141;\"\u003e\n      What is a Smudge Spot Cory Catfish?\n    \u003c\/summary\u003e\n    \u003cp style=\"margin: 10px 0 5px 0;\"\u003e\n      The Smudge Spot Cory is a peaceful South American armored catfish\n      traditionally known as \u003cem\u003eCorydoras similis\u003c\/em\u003e. It is recognized\n      by its pale speckled body and diffuse blue-gray marking near the base\n      of the tail.\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/details\u003e\n\n  \u003cdetails style=\"border-bottom: 1px solid #ddd; padding: 13px 0;\"\u003e\n    \u003csummary style=\"cursor: pointer; font-weight: 700; color: #016141;\"\u003e\n      Is Corydoras similis now Hoplisoma simile?\n    \u003c\/summary\u003e\n    \u003cp style=\"margin: 10px 0 5px 0;\"\u003e\n      Yes. \u003cem\u003eCorydoras similis\u003c\/em\u003e remains widely used in the aquarium hobby,\n      but under the newer Corydoradinae classification the currently accepted\n      scientific combination is \u003cem\u003eHoplisoma simile\u003c\/em\u003e.\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/details\u003e\n\n  \u003cdetails style=\"border-bottom: 1px solid #ddd; padding: 13px 0;\"\u003e\n    \u003csummary style=\"cursor: pointer; font-weight: 700; color: #016141;\"\u003e\n      Why is it called the Smudge Spot Cory?\n    \u003c\/summary\u003e\n    \u003cp style=\"margin: 10px 0 5px 0;\"\u003e\n      The name comes from the diffuse dark blue-gray marking near the base of\n      the tail. Unlike a sharply defined black spot, the edges appear blurred\n      or “smudged.”\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/details\u003e\n\n  \u003cdetails style=\"border-bottom: 1px solid #ddd; padding: 13px 0;\"\u003e\n    \u003csummary style=\"cursor: pointer; font-weight: 700; color: #016141;\"\u003e\n      What is the difference between Smudge Spot Cory and Tail Spot Cory?\n    \u003c\/summary\u003e\n    \u003cp style=\"margin: 10px 0 5px 0;\"\u003e\n      The Smudge Spot Cory has a softer, diffuse blue-gray marking near the\n      tail. The Tail Spot Cory (\u003cem\u003eCorydoras caudimaculatus\u003c\/em\u003e) typically\n      has a much darker and more sharply defined black spot on the caudal peduncle.\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/details\u003e\n\n  \u003cdetails style=\"border-bottom: 1px solid #ddd; padding: 13px 0;\"\u003e\n    \u003csummary style=\"cursor: pointer; font-weight: 700; color: #016141;\"\u003e\n      How big do Smudge Spot Cory Catfish get?\n    \u003c\/summary\u003e\n    \u003cp style=\"margin: 10px 0 5px 0;\"\u003e\n      Published size figures vary depending on measurement method and source.\n      FishBase records approximately \u003cstrong\u003e1.5 inches standard length\u003c\/strong\u003e,\n      while aquarium references report individuals approaching\n      \u003cstrong\u003e2–2.4 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e. Mature females are typically larger and\n      fuller-bodied than males.\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/details\u003e\n\n  \u003cdetails style=\"border-bottom: 1px solid #ddd; padding: 13px 0;\"\u003e\n    \u003csummary style=\"cursor: pointer; font-weight: 700; color: #016141;\"\u003e\n      How many Smudge Spot Corys should be kept together?\n    \u003c\/summary\u003e\n    \u003cp style=\"margin: 10px 0 5px 0;\"\u003e\n      Keep Smudge Spot Corys in a group of at least \u003cstrong\u003e6 fish\u003c\/strong\u003e.\n      They are social catfish and generally display more confident and natural\n      behavior when maintained with other members of their species.\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/details\u003e\n\n  \u003cdetails style=\"border-bottom: 1px solid #ddd; padding: 13px 0;\"\u003e\n    \u003csummary style=\"cursor: pointer; font-weight: 700; color: #016141;\"\u003e\n      What temperature is best for Smudge Spot Corys?\n    \u003c\/summary\u003e\n    \u003cp style=\"margin: 10px 0 5px 0;\"\u003e\n      A practical aquarium temperature range for Smudge Spot Corys is around\n      \u003cstrong\u003e70–81°F (21–27°C)\u003c\/strong\u003e, with a pH of approximately\n      \u003cstrong\u003e5.6–7.0\u003c\/strong\u003e.\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/details\u003e\n\n  \u003cdetails style=\"border-bottom: 1px solid #ddd; padding: 13px 0;\"\u003e\n    \u003csummary style=\"cursor: pointer; font-weight: 700; color: #016141;\"\u003e\n      Are Smudge Spot Cory Catfish peaceful?\n    \u003c\/summary\u003e\n    \u003cp style=\"margin: 10px 0 5px 0;\"\u003e\n      Yes. Smudge Spot Corys are very peaceful social fish and are suitable\n      for freshwater community aquariums containing other non-aggressive\n      species with compatible water requirements.\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/details\u003e\n\n  \u003cdetails style=\"border-bottom: 1px solid #ddd; padding: 13px 0;\"\u003e\n    \u003csummary style=\"cursor: pointer; font-weight: 700; color: #016141;\"\u003e\n      Where do Smudge Spot Cory Catfish come from?\n    \u003c\/summary\u003e\n    \u003cp style=\"margin: 10px 0 5px 0;\"\u003e\n      Smudge Spot Corys are native to the\n      \u003cstrong\u003eMadeira River basin in Brazil\u003c\/strong\u003e. The original type locality\n      is associated with tributaries of the Rio Madeira in Rondônia.\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/details\u003e\n\n  \u003cdetails style=\"border-bottom: 1px solid #ddd; padding: 13px 0;\"\u003e\n    \u003csummary style=\"cursor: pointer; font-weight: 700; color: #016141;\"\u003e\n      What do Smudge Spot Cory Catfish eat?\n    \u003c\/summary\u003e\n    \u003cp style=\"margin: 10px 0 5px 0;\"\u003e\n      Smudge Spot Corys are omnivorous foragers. Feed quality sinking pellets,\n      tablets, or wafers along with appropriately sized frozen or live foods\n      such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, Tubifex, and blackworms.\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/details\u003e\n\n  \u003cdetails style=\"border-bottom: 1px solid #ddd; padding: 13px 0;\"\u003e\n    \u003csummary style=\"cursor: pointer; font-weight: 700; color: #016141;\"\u003e\n      Do Smudge Spot Corys clean the aquarium?\n    \u003c\/summary\u003e\n    \u003cp style=\"margin: 10px 0 5px 0;\"\u003e\n      Smudge Spot Corys naturally forage along the aquarium floor, but they\n      should not be considered aquarium maintenance animals. They require\n      intentional feeding with nutritious sinking foods along with regular\n      water changes and normal substrate cleaning.\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/details\u003e\n\n  \u003c!-- FINAL --\u003e\n  \u003cdiv style=\"margin-top: 34px; padding: 22px; background: #016141; color: #fff; border-radius: 5px;\"\u003e\n    \u003ch2 style=\"color: #fff; font-size: 23px; margin: 0 0 10px 0;\"\u003e\n      Smudge Spot Cory Catfish at Tropicflow Aquatic\n    \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n    \u003cp style=\"margin: 0;\"\u003e\n      Add subtle color and a distinctive Cory pattern to your freshwater\n      aquarium with the \u003cstrong\u003eSmudge Spot Cory Catfish\u003c\/strong\u003e.\n      With its soft blue-gray tail smudge, fine peppered markings, peaceful\n      personality, and active social behavior,\n      \u003cstrong\u003eCorydoras similis\u003c\/strong\u003e is an excellent choice for Cory\n      enthusiasts, planted aquariums, and peaceful freshwater community tanks.\n    \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n","brand":"Tropicflow","offers":[{"title":"1 Fish","offer_id":52690033967402,"sku":null,"price":14.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"3 Fish","offer_id":52690034000170,"sku":null,"price":49.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"6 Fish – Recommended","offer_id":52690034032938,"sku":null,"price":99.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0667\/6237\/5466\/files\/Smudge-Spot-Corydoras-Catfish-CorydorasSimilis.png?v=1789891218","url":"https:\/\/tropicflow.com\/products\/smudge-spot-cory-catfish-corydoras-similis","provider":"Tropicflow","version":"1.0","type":"link"}