Corydoras Catfish are widely distributed throughout the South American continent. Panama is the only area where these fish can’t be found. There are 144 known species of Corydoras and hundreds more species are still waiting to be classified.
Traits of Corydoras Catfish
Corydoras are not large fish and only grow to a size of two to three inches. In order to help them find food in the substrate, they have four barbels that resemble cat’s whiskers. Although they don’t have scales, they have two rows of bony plates on their body to serve as protectors.
In their native habitat, Corydoras are most likely to be found in smaller streams, ponds and marshes, where the water is almost still, but yet very clear. Most species are found foraging in the substrate and plants for food . They feed off of bottom-dwelling insects, worms and flesh from dead fish.
Corydoras are found in large schools, ranging in population from hundreds to thousands. Usually schools are restricted to one fish species but several species of Corydoras can be found in one school.
Unlike other catfish, Corydoras are very active during the day.
Aquarium Conditions for Corydoras Catfish
- Corydoras can handle a wide range of water conditions with PH values up to the high 7’s and water hardness with DH values of 5 to 10. Water temperature should be between 68F and 80F. They tolerate very little salt in the water.
- The minimum tank size should be 10 gallons and the substrate should be soft in order to avoid damaging the Corydoras’ sensitive barbels.
- Because they are shoaling fish, it is recommended to have more than one Corydoras in an aquarium.
- Corydoras are shy and need to have hiding places in an aquarium. Rock caves, driftwood and plants provide shelter.
- These fish are very easy to keep and get along very well with all community fish and most dwarf cichlids. Corydoras should not be kept with larger aggressive fish.
- Corydoras are bottom feeders and scavenge the aquarium for scrap food. They should also be fed food pellets and algae wafers that are designed to sink to the bottom of the tank.
The more common species of Corydoras are: Plated Catfish, Bronze Catfish, Armored Catfish, Albino Corydoras and Mailed Catfish.
Corydoras are a popular choice for aquariums because of their peaceful nature. They don’t grow very large so they are good for smaller tanks. They are a useful addition because they clean up the tank by eating the food left by other fish.
Related Articles:
 |
