Classification:
Order: Siluriformes
Family: Callichthyidae
Distribution:
This species is one of the more widespread than other members of the genus and has been recorded throughout much of the Amazon basin in Brazil, Peru, Ecuador and Colombia.
Habitat:
This species tends to form aggregations in smaller tributaries and still bodies of water such as backwaters, oxbows and marginal lakes.
Maximum Standard Length:
70 – 80mm.
Aquarium Size:
Minimum base dimensions of 120 x 45cm or equivalent are recommended. It is advised to find a filter which has a water flow between 4-5 times the volume of your aquarium.
Maintenance:
Ideally use a substrate of fine sand, although rounded gravel is an acceptable alternative provided it is kept scrupulously clean. Other decor is largely down to personal choice, but some cover should be provided to give the fish security.
Water Conditions:
Temperature: 20 – 28 °C
pH: 5.0 – 8.0
Hardness: 36 – 268 ppm
Diet:
Corydoras spp. are foraging omnivores and will accept most sinking dried foods, as well as small live and frozen varieties such as chironomid larvae (bloodworm), Tubifex, etc. Feeding a varied diet will ensure the fish are in optimum condition. Under no circumstances should they be expected to survive on ‘left-overs’ from other inhabitants of the aquarium or relied on to ‘clean’ the aquarium.
Behaviour and Compatibility:
Peaceful and gregarious. Should be maintained in a group of at least 6-8 individuals.
Sexual Dimorphism:
Adult females are noticeably rounder, higher-bodied, and grow slightly larger than males.
Reproduction:
Eggs are laid close to the water surface and are easy to remove elsewhere for raising.
