Bronze Corydoras originate from South America and are found on the eastern side of the Andes, from Colombia and Trinidad to the Río de la Plata basin, they are a member of the catfish family Callichthyidae which are known as armored catfishes due to the two rows of bony plates (or scutes) along the lengths of their bodies.
Synonyms | Callichthys aeneus, Corydoras macrosteus, Corydoras microps, Corydoras schulzei, Hoplosoma aeneum |
Distribution | Quiet shallow waters, and occasionally found in the running waters, of Colombia and Trinidad to the La Plata River basin east of the Andes, South America. |
Sexual Dimorphism | Females grow slightly larger and appear wider when viewed from above. Males are slimmer. |
Maximum Size | 7.5cm (3”) |
Water Parameters | Will acclimatise to a wide range of water conditions, providing that good water quality is maintained. |
Temperature | 22-28 deg C (72-82 deg F) |
Compatibility | Community |
Lighting | No special requirements |
Environment
The Bronze Cory is an ideal catfish for the community aquarium, should be kept on a soft sand substrate and maintained in groups of 5 or more due to their shoaling nature. Some heavily planted shaded areas should be provided also. Corydoras have the ability to breathe air intestinally, so leaving a small gap between the surface of the water and the cover slides should be done in order for the fish to come up to the surface and take air in. They may do this numerous times per day.
What’s for lunch?
Sinking catfish pellets, frozen foods such as mosquito larvae and brine shrimp. Although they will also sift through substrate for any food that may end up there such as uneaten flakes etc.
Breeding
Mature pairs can be triggered into spawning by performing a large, slightly cooler water change. The pair will adopt the classic ‘T position’ where the male fertilises the eggs that are held between the female’s pelvic fins. The adhesive eggs will then be deposited onto plants, décor, or the sides of the aquarium etc and the process repeated. The eggs generally take 3-4 days to hatch after which time the tiny fry should be offered finely powdered first foods. A few days later they will be able to take newly hatched brineshrimp.