Corydoras trilineatus
Almost always sold under the name 'Julii Cory' — true *Corydoras julii* is rare in the trade. The reticulated pattern is finer than *C. julii* (a network rather than spots). Hardy, sand substrate is kinder to barbels than gravel.
False Julii Cory (Corydoras trilineatus) reaches 5–6 cm as an adult and needs a minimum tank of 75 L. Native to Upper Amazon, it lives in the bottom water column with a peaceful temperament. Aim for 22–26 °C, pH 6.0–7.5, and 2–15 dGH hardness. Lifespan is 5–7 years with good care. Keep false julii cory in groups of 6+, yes schoolers need numbers to display natural behaviour. Diet: omnivore, Sinking pellet, frozen bloodworm and brine shrimp, scavenges leftovers. Plant-safe: Yes. Shrimp-safe: Yes (with adults).
Care at a glance
Almost always sold under the name 'Julii Cory' — true *Corydoras julii* is rare in the trade. The reticulated pattern is finer than *C. julii* (a network rather than spots). Hardy, sand substrate is kinder to barbels than gravel.
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The parameters that decide whether false julii cory fits in your tank.
Bottom
Yes
Group of 6+
Callichthyidae
Omnivore
Sinking pellet, frozen bloodworm and brine shrimp, scavenges leftovers.
5–7 yrs
Medium
Upper Amazon
Upper Amazon
Tank-mate safety and the species this one is documented to thrive (or fail) alongside.
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False Julii Cory (Corydoras trilineatus) needs a minimum tank of 75 L. They live in the bottom water column and should be kept in groups of 6+, so a longer footprint matters more than depth.
Target 22–26 °C, pH 6.0–7.5, and 2–15 dGH hardness. Acclimate slowly when moving them between water sources.
Shrimp safety: Yes (with adults). Plant safety: Yes.
False Julii Cory are omnivore. Sinking pellet, frozen bloodworm and brine shrimp, scavenges leftovers.
On Fin & Stem's 1–5 difficulty scale this species rates 1/5. Almost unkillable, a solid first-tank choice. Breeding difficulty: medium.
Typical lifespan in a well-maintained tank is 5–7 years.
A planted tank is a system. Pair this fish with one entry from each other pillar to plan the whole scape.
