More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 45 litres / 11.89 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 5.0cm / 1.97inches |
| Temperature | 20°C / 68.00°F - 25°C / 77.00°F |
| Hardness | 1-15ºdH |
| pH | 6.0-7.6 |
General Description
With over 180 described species, the Corydoras (also known as "corys") is one of the most diverse South American fish genera. These peaceful bottom-dwellers are characterized by their bony plates instead of scales and sharp pectoral fin spines. They are facultative air breathers and possess adaptations to survive in oxygen-deprived environments.
Aquarium Setup
To mimic their natural habitat, set up a tank for Corydoras with river sand substrate, driftwood branches, twisted roots, dried leaves, and dim lighting. Avoid undergravel filtration, keep the substrate clean, and maintain well-oxygenated water conditions with a pH of 6.0-7.6, hardness of 1-15 dH, and a temperature range of 20-25°C.
Behaviour
Corydoras are peaceful community fish but thrive in groups of at least six. They exhibit schooling behavior and should be kept with small, non-aggressive tankmates like characins, cyprinids, anabantoids, dwarf cichlids, and peaceful catfish. Intraspecific aggression is rare, and they do not pose a threat to other species in the tank.
Feeding and Diet
These omnivorous fish readily accept sinking pellets or tablets as their staple diet. Supplement their diet with live and frozen foods like Daphnia, Artemia, bloodworms, and similar options. Ensure they receive adequate food as they do not thrive on food scraps left by other tank inhabitants.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
Breeding Corydoras involves setting up a dedicated tank with proper substrate, vegetation, and water conditions. Males exhibit breeding behavior by caressing females with barbels to fertilize eggs. Females are rounder and broader-bodied, especially when full of eggs. Successful breeding requires attention to water quality, oxygenation, and potential egg predation by adults.
Habitat and Distribution
Corydoras Polystictus, found in the upper Rio Paraguay in Mato Grosso, Brazil, typically inhabits small tributaries, creeks, flooded forest areas, and sandbanks. While mimicking an Amazonian biotope is ideal for these fish, they can also thrive in well-maintained, planted tanks with suitable water conditions.