#bandit corydoras

[herefishiefishie]

New blog new intro - fish yeah

Wanna meet my water dogs? Yeah you do.

Ten Gallon

• Khonshu - Galaxy Koi Plakat Betta

• 2 Adult Ramshorn Snails + their criminal amount of children

Bought this pretty boy over this summer. He's in his main character era and currently can't decide what colour he wants to be.

Konch has a liking for brine shrimp and bloodworms, and detritus worms.. and ghost shrimp. Oh and baby ramshorn snails. Quite the palate on that one. Sometimes he'll accept a rogue betta buffet pellet.

Currently in the works of getting some pipe cleaners and maybe training him some.

29 Gallon

• 10 Glowlight Tetras

• 9 Bandit Corydoras

• 2 Honey Gourami (Marner & Nylander)

• 2 Mystery Snails

• 2 Black Racer Nerite Snails

This is my fun little community tank. My little side gig if you will. Based finished, except for a final addition of a third honey gourami (hopefully soon) and possibly a third mystery snail. If the mysteries ever start to breed I could bring in some babies to the LFS and sell them. If not then that's fine and I'll take what I can get. Yes I did name my gouramis after hockey players and yes I can tell them apart by one single black scale.

Future Projects

I'd love to set up a 3rd tank, walstad method. My stocking would either be a colony of shrimp or a single betta. I'd attempt this in a 5.5 gallon. If this happens or not, who knows, but the idea is definitely there.

For future future projects, I'd love to set up a 75 gallon community tank when I get my own place. Stocking I'm unsure about, but a large school of something like swordtails or platies is something that has always captivated me.

[iulie-o]

Watercolors by Franco Testa for L’Erbolario, 2010.

[tentabulge-torturechamber]

In light of just being removed from a Betta Group™️ on FB 🖕 for saying that their advocation of keeping betta in 1 gallon bowls with no filter heater substrate or hides is actual animal abuse, here's my bettas.

2 of my tanks. The white one is Ghost and he usually lives by himself but rn there's a bristlenose pleco in there waiting for his tank to finish cycling so he can go in it. The other is Finnegan, my bestest boy ❤️ He shares his tank with 3 bandit corydoras, 1 adult mystery snail, and 3 of her babies.

Both tanks are 10 gallons, Fin's kinda borders on over stocked, but with weekly water changes and a lot of plants - which you SHOULD have for bettas- it works.

You absolutely can house bettas with other COMPATIBLE fish. Peaceful bottom dwelling and preferably armored fish. Also I was lucky and both of my betta are incredibly well mannered, some betta are aggressive towards everything, but in 15 years I've never had one like that.

As long as you aren't stressing them by freezing them, putting them in too small enclosures, or refusing to buy a filter, they're really good fish to keep and maintain.

(Yes Fin's tank has algae. It's by a window. It happens.)

•Now, there r acceptions to the heater requirement: like if you live in a hot area or keep your house hot and the water temp is just naturally around 75-80, than you don't need one. That's it.

•Live vs fake plants is a preference, but you should have a planted tank of some kind that at least whispers at representing their natural habitat!

•FILTERS ARE 100% NECESSARY!!!! WOULD YOU LIKE TO BREATHE YOUR OWN SHIT!?

•The bare minimum gallon requirement for a single betta and nothing else is FIVE (5) gallons. Who ever said it was less lies to you. You should be mad. Go slap that person for me.

This is literally the bare minimum of care. These are living beings, not ornaments!

[mako-and-tails-and-stuff]

I got tropical fish last weekend and today I finished naming them. I knew I was getting the fish two months ago but I had to transport them over to the Scottish Mainland from the Orkney Isles. Only one died in transit which was really good as the fish lady who gave us bags to take them over said to expect a few casualties. 

Anyways, because it’s me there are some with H2O/Mako names. 

There is Rikki, a silver Molly. 

Hot Stuff and Pluto are both Clownfish Loaches, both named after Cleo’s fish. 

And then there’s Ondina, one of the four surviving Guppies. (There were babies and only four survived. No idea what happened to the parents as the only Guppies in the tank are the babies. 

There’s also Skulduggery Pleasant related names.

There are the Cleavers, two albino Bronze Corydoras.

There are the Rues, all Neon Tetras.

There are the Taniths, all Ember Tetras.

Solomon the black Molly.

Then there is China, another of the Guppies. 

The other fish are;

The Deep Ones, which are three Peppered Corydoras.

Cthulhu, a Bandit Corydora

Mike and Zombie, the other two Guppies.

Rowan and Cersei, the two Plecos. 

And Rasputin, the Harlequin Rasboras. 

[creaturecompanion07]

Cory Catfish

Cory catfish also referred to as Corydoras, or armored catfish is a family of freshwater fish that are surprisingly tough. Fish are a common addition to tropical aquariums, such as community tanks.

Corydoras are adorable because they are easygoing and adaptable and, as the bottom-dwellers, they can leave the surroundings cleaner than they were before.

There are, however, numerous cory catfish types that vary in size and color. However, bronze Corydoras are most likely the most well-known.

This is why, in this article, we'll examine the top 5 cory catfish species you could think about if require new, easy to take care of, and tranquil bottom dwellers to your aquarium.

1. Bandit Cory (Corydorasmetae)

Bandit Cory’s has a different magnetism of its own. With that mysterious black band over his eyes, he has earned this demonstrative name for himself, which certainly has nothing to do with his nature! They are just as calm and quiet as the other members of their genus. An additional black stripe runs from the base of their tail to their very prominent dorsal fin, which looks somewhat spectacular. It is a minor member of the genus, and has marginally more specific temperature and pH requirements than some other species, making them less suitable for starters.

· Maximum Size: 2 inches

· Temperature Range: 72–79°F

· pH: 6.5–7.0

· Level of Care: Easy – Intermediate

· Tankmates: Other smaller, peaceful schooling fish

2. Pygmy Cory (Corydoraspygmaeus)

This distinct species of Corydoras is the smallest in the subfamily. Being just 1 inch long at maturity, they make a great choice if one is looking for a school of catfish in a small aquarium. Even a 50-liter tank is enough to hold 6 of these, as long as the aquarium has sufficient surface area. On the other hand, it is important that they be kept only with other peaceful species. Bountiful tankmates, with a probing habit of living in the middle of the water, can make them susceptible to other inhabitants of that layer.

· Maximum Size: 1.3 inches

· Temperature Range: 70–78°F

· pH: 6.5–7.5

· Level of Care: Intermediate

· Tankmates: Be sure to accommodate only the peaceful ones.

3. Panda Cory (Corydoras panda)

As the prettiest member of the family, this kori variety is adorned with dark spots around their eyes, giving them their popular name. This catfish requires a bit more skill from the fisherman as they prefer a softly lit environment and a carefully designed bottom. An abundance of hiding places and preferably some thick vegetation will protect this shy catfish and make it feel safe and at ease. It is friendly in its kind and also appreciates the close company of prankster loaches. To keep them in excellent health, regular servings of bloodworms or brine shrimp will help them look their best.

· Maximum Size: 2.5 inches

· Temperature Range: 68–79°F

· pH: 5.8–7.0

· Level of Care: Intermediate

· Tankmates: Other gentle schooling species

4. Three Stripe Cory (Corydorastrilineatus)

Often mislabeled in stores as Julie Corey, this type of Corey is available for far more than Julie Corey. True Julies have more distinctive spots while three-striped corys have continuous, twisted markings with three stripes. This is a very beautiful catfish in itself and certainly deserves generous praise. This is another very less demanding cory variety, requiring only a basic minimum level of care. But in return, the substrate of the tank will remain up to the optimum clean level as these play an important role as a living vacuum cleaner in a community aquarium.

· Maximum Size: 2.5 inches

· Temperature Range: 72–78 °F

· pH: 5.8–7.2

· Level of Care: Easy

· Tankmates: Other peaceful community species.

5. Skunk Cory (Corydorasarcuatus)

The Skunk Corey Cat adds a splash of drama to any home aquarium. Also known as the Sands Cory Cat, Corydorasarcuatus is active, yet peaceful, especially when kept in small schools. Although other members of the Corydoras genus boast black stripes on their eyes and down the back, the back stripe of this skunk cory cat splits just before the tail and runs down to color the lower edge of the caudal fin.. An unusual behavioral trait of this species, as with other Corys, is their sporadic sudden dash to swallow air at the surface of the water. This evolutionary rediscovery helps them survive in stagnant waters during periods of low rainfall in their natural habitat. This is normal and should not be a cause for concern about water quality.

· Maximum Size: 2 inches

· Temperature Range: 72–79°F

· pH Range: 6.8–7.5

· Level of Care: Easy

· Tankmates: Other peaceful community species.

For more information visit our website Creature Companion

[creaturecompanionsofficial]

Cory Catfish

Cory catfish also referred to as Corydoras, or armored catfish is a family of freshwater fish that are surprisingly tough. Fish are a common addition to tropical aquariums, such as community tanks.

Corydoras are adorable because they are easygoing and adaptable and, as the bottom-dwellers, they can leave the surroundings cleaner than they were before.

There are, however, numerous cory catfish types that vary in size and color. However, bronze Corydoras are most likely the most well-known.

This is why, in this article, we'll examine the top 5 cory catfish species you could think about if require new, easy to take care of, and tranquil bottom dwellers to your aquarium.                        

1.      Bandit Cory (Corydorasmetae)

Bandit Cory’s has a different magnetism of its own. With that mysterious black band over his eyes, he has earned this demonstrative name for himself, which certainly has nothing to do with his nature! They are just as calm and quiet as the other members of their genus. An additional black stripe runs from the base of their tail to their very prominent dorsal fin, which looks somewhat spectacular. It is a minor member of the genus, and has marginally more specific temperature and pH requirements than some other species, making them less suitable for starters.

Maximum Size: 2 inches

Temperature Range: 72–79°F

pH: 6.5–7.0

Level of Care: Easy – Intermediate

Tankmates: Other smaller, peaceful schooling fish

2.    Pygmy Cory (Corydoraspygmaeus)

This distinct species of Corydoras is the smallest in the subfamily. Being just 1 inch long at maturity, they make a great choice if one is looking for a school of catfish in a small aquarium. Even a 50-liter tank is enough to hold 6 of these, as long as the aquarium has sufficient surface area. On the other hand, it is important that they be kept only with other peaceful species. Bountiful tankmates, with a probing habit of living in the middle of the water, can make them susceptible to other inhabitants of that layer.

Maximum Size: 1.3 inches

Temperature Range: 70–78°F

pH: 6.5–7.5

Level of Care: Intermediate

Tankmates: Be sure to accommodate only the peaceful ones.

3.    Panda Cory (Corydoras panda)

As the prettiest member of the family, this kori variety is adorned with dark spots around their eyes, giving them their popular name. This catfish requires a bit more skill from the fisherman as they prefer a softly lit environment and a carefully designed bottom. An abundance of hiding places and preferably some thick vegetation will protect this shy catfish and make it feel safe and at ease. It is friendly in its kind and also appreciates the close company of prankster loaches. To keep them in excellent health, regular servings of bloodworms or brine shrimp will help them look their best.

Maximum Size: 2.5 inches

Temperature Range: 68–79°F

pH: 5.8–7.0

Level of Care: Intermediate

Tankmates: Other gentle schooling species

4.    Three Stripe Cory (Corydorastrilineatus)

Often mislabeled in stores as Julie Corey, this type of Corey is available for far more than Julie Corey. True Julies have more distinctive spots while three-striped corys have continuous, twisted markings with three stripes. This is a very beautiful catfish in itself and certainly deserves generous praise. This is another very less demanding cory variety, requiring only a basic minimum level of care. But in return, the substrate of the tank will remain up to the optimum clean level as these play an important role as a living vacuum cleaner in a community aquarium.

Maximum Size: 2.5 inches

Temperature Range: 72–78 °F

pH: 5.8–7.2

Level of Care: Easy

Tankmates: Other peaceful community species.

5.    Skunk Cory (Corydorasarcuatus)

The Skunk Corey Cat adds a splash of drama to any home aquarium. Also known as the Sands Cory Cat, Corydorasarcuatus is active, yet peaceful, especially when kept in small schools. Although other members of the Corydoras genus boast black stripes on their eyes and down the back, the back stripe of this skunk cory cat splits just before the tail and runs down to color the lower edge of the caudal fin.. An unusual behavioral trait of this species, as with other Corys, is their sporadic sudden dash to swallow air at the surface of the water. This evolutionary rediscovery helps them survive in stagnant waters during periods of low rainfall in their natural habitat. This is normal and should not be a cause for concern about water quality.

Maximum Size: 2 inches

Temperature Range: 72–79°F

pH Range: 6.8–7.5

Level of Care: Easy

Tankmates: Other peaceful community species.

For more information visit our website Creature Companion

[inspired-by-a-bead]

In addition to all my art, raising butterflies, and gardening, I maintain a 55 gallon aquarium. This Bandit. He is a clown loach I've had for a couple years now. I didn't know a lot about him at the time, the pet store said he would only get about 5 to 7 inches long. Well as it turns out, clown loaches are schooling fish, so ideally they need to be kept in groups of 5 or more. They also can get up to 12 inches long, so not for small tanks. For now, Bandit hangs out with my corydoras. Hopefully I will be able to get at least two more clown loach companions for him eventually, but finding them around here is hard and getting them online is very expensive.

[waterworldcraze]

12 Amazing Bottom-Dwelling Fish For A 10-Gallon Tank

Now that you have purchased a 10-gallon tank, you need to think about its inhabitants, and how you will make that corner of your house interesting, which was previously occupied by your grandmother’s coat stand.

To have a well-rounded ecosystem in your 10-gallon tank, you need to have all sorts of colorful fish that beautify the corner.

With a tank this huge, you have the opportunity to fill it up with as many species as you want. However, since bottom-dwelling fish are an important part of the aquarium, the question here is ‘what type of bottom dwelling fish can you keep in your 10-gallon tank?’

The answer to what type of bottom-dwelling fish can you keep in your 10-gallon tank is not a definite one. Bottom-dwelling fish play an important part in the ecosystem, and that is the part of cleaning up their homes.

Therefore, you need to think carefully about the choices you make because there are over a dozen species that can keep your 10-gallon tank populated and attractive.

Before we get to the list, here are a few more things you need to know:

Knowing Your Fish

When you step into a pet store, more often than not, you get confused when it comes to selecting the inhabitants for your aquarium.

The staff at your local store may present you with a lot of options but keep in mind that most of them might just be trying to increase the sales and earn their commission without really listening to your needs.

Even worse than this is following the name tags on the display tanks that are supposed to clear your doubts but may be flat out wrong.

Therefore, the question remains… How are you going to fill up your 10-gallon tank? Here are a few tips:

Do your own research (This article can serve as a guide)

Learn in-depth about aquarium care and the different species of fish

Keep in mind that some fish may be appropriate for your 10-gallon tank but they may not be easy to take care of

12 Bottom Dwelling Fish for Your 10-Gallon Tank

1. Cory Catfish

This species of bottom-dwelling fish is one of the most popular ones. They remain tiny and do not normally grow longer than a few inches. They are highly compatible with other species, but most importantly, they are omnivores.

This means they not only keep the tank clear of algae, but also eat any dead fish and anything else found at the bottom of your massive tank.

2. Otocinclus Catfish

These can be another great addition since they only grow up to 2 inches. They are called by several other names like Oto cats, algae scrapers and dwarf suckermouths.

Brown algae are their personal favorite – so there goes your worry of cleaning up the tank often.

They are also a bit sensitive and tend to do the best when they are added to an established ecosystem.

3. Siamese Algae Eaters

As their name suggests, Siamese algae eaters love algae no matter what the type is, therefore any algae that might be toxifying your tank may not be found the next morning.

As these fish age, they will need alternative food like pellets, but rest assured algae will not be a problem anymore.

You should not confuse them with Chinese algae eaters that grow more than the Siamese do.

4. Snails

Another popular species of bottom feeders that enjoy sucking on smooth surfaces so you will always find the sides of your 10-gallon tank clean.

They are highly efficient at their jobs so you will find them sucking day and night. However, you need to be careful since some snails reproduce faster than others do.

The Mystery Snail is one of the best choice since they do not reproduce fast and are compatible with other fish.

5. Amano Shrimp

The Amano shrimp is adaptable to various tank environments and are one of the most productive algae eaters in the family of shrimps.

Another cool characteristic of the Amano shrimp is that they will eat any leftover food that will otherwise turn into bacteria.

They only grow to an inch and a half, and are a great friend to other fish.

In addition, they are beautiful to look at with their spotted translucent bodies.

6. Crayfish

While this will sound odd to many fish enthusiasts, Crayfish are actually excellent bottom feeders. They even devour dead fish.

Apart from that, they are colorful and vibrant with their bright blue color, so it makes sense to keep them in the tank to do the dirty work.

One thing about crayfish that you need to know is that they get insecure if they do not find a hiding spot; therefore, you need to make sure your tank has plenty.

7. Kuhli Loach

Loaches have a unique personality and love to live in groups with other species of fish, so there is passion and it is seen in their movements around the tank.

They really enjoy digging in the gravel of the tank and find their meal.

They are so dedicated and persistent with finding their food that they may even move decorations and are often found stuck under those items at times.

One thing you need to take care of is to prevent them from crawling out because they are sneaky and like their time out as well.

8. Plecostomus Catfish

The Pleco fish lives between 20-30 years and may grow as long as 2 feet. It not only constantly feeds but is nocturnal too.

The moment you switch off the lights is when Pleco fish starts its day.

However, when it grows to 12 inches, it will eat a lot and poop a lot, too, but rest assured your algae problems would not remain.

9. Corydoras Catfish

They are cuter than Cory Cats and flit around and scour the bottom of the tank all day.

Usually, they stay small, but other species in the family may grow to different lengths.

They are also quite peaceful but you might notice some squabbles unless you keep them in a big group.

10. Synodontis Catfish

They are really active but also shy at times.

Like the Synodontis Catfish, they may squabble amongst themselves but they are peaceful and ignore the smaller fish in the tank.

The best part about these species is that they are fun to watch when they wiggle out of their hiding to cruise around the tank for food.

11. Botia Loaches

Their small appearance is interesting and their behavior is quite intriguing too, but some of their species can grow to a certain length that may not be suitable for a 10-gallon tank.

They are fun to watch since you will find them manically scouring for substrates at times or lounging like a kid in front of a TV at other times.

They prefer being in big groups if you want them to be non-aggressive.

12. Geophagus

The name of this species literally translates to earth-eater or sand-sifter.

They are known for taking mouthfuls from the ground, sifting through it and then spitting out the rest.

They have several species, amongst which some of them might grow too long to fit in a populated 10-gallon tank while others may be too aggressive.

Here is some advice that may come in handy – surround the plants by big rocks to avoid them plowing through.

Other bottom-dwellers

Like the 10-gallon tank that you might not want to overpopulate, without overloading you with information, here are a few other bottom-dwelling fish that might interest you:

13. Adolfo’s Cory 14. Bandit Cory 15. Pictus Catfish 16. Kribensis 17. Twig Catfish 18. Fresh Water Shrimp 19. Panda Cory 20. Weather Loach

How Many Fish to Get for a 10-Gallon Tank?

While there is no definite answer to this question, the best way to go about it is to do your own research on the different fish species you like. Learning about them will help you evaluate whether or not they will go well with the other species.

The Rule of Thumb

The general rule of thumb in such cases recommends one adult fish per gallon. Therefore, for a 10-gallon tank, you can stock around 10 fish (if you choose to follow the rule).

However, rather than relying on a basic method or a simple formula, it is better to do your own homework and find out more about the fish species you intend on getting for your tank.

Comparing them will help you come up with the right combination of species to inhabitate your tank. While you’re at it, don’t forget to come up with a backup plan as well in case the fish species you get do not mix well.

Just think smartly before selecting the different types of bottom-dwelling fish you want in your 10-gallon tank and you will be a proud owner of a beautiful ecosystem consisting of numerous exotic fish species within no time!

[mako-and-tails-and-stuff]

The corydora. There's two Albino cories (the Cleavers), one Bandit Cory (she's called Cthulhu) , and then three Peppered Cories (the Deep Ones)

[creaturecompanion07]

10 Common Types of Cory Catfish

Cory Catfish, also known in the hobby as Cory Cats, Cory Fish, and Corydoras Catfish, are very popular freshwater fish. It is a passive novice fish with a great deal of character. Corydoras are the most popular community fish because they’re so happy-go-lucky, easy to breed, and helpful as a clean-up crew. Cory Catfish are often described as armored catfish, due to their plates of bone-like material running the length of their bodies. Their cheerful demeanor and sympathetic habit of regularly cleaning bottom of the tank makes them a perfect addition to any community aquarium.

This genus of South American catfish includes more than 160 species, with several hundred more that are waiting to be classified. With so many other species of Corydoras out there, though, choosing the right one could seem awe-inspiring. Here we take a closer look at ten of the finest Cory species…

1. Sterbaicory (Corydorassterbai)

This is a striking cory, and a large school in a large planted tank makes a magnificent display. It has been popular since it was introduced. Lone specimens are sad shadows of healthy individuals kept in groups, and the comical antics of a school of Cory cats can entertain for hours. The most striking feature of this species is the bright gold colour on pectoral spines, highlighting this beautiful fish with a warm glow. These fish are most active at night, so feeding once before lights out is typically enough. Though they can easily be persuaded to feed during the day. Since they are slower eaters, they should be allowed at least 30 minutes to consume their food.

Maximum Size: 2.7 inches

Temperature Range: 70–77°F

pH Range: 5.8–8.0

Level of Care: Easy

Tankmates: Similar-sized fish, peaceful species.

2. Peppered Cory (Corydoraspaleatus)

Peppered Corys are perhaps the most commonly kept from the family. An undisputed top choice of many, they are extremely tough and simple to really care for – ideal for first-time fish-keepers. Their curious, considerate nature quickly makes them charming fish.

This Cory species is also one of the easiest to breed in captivity – making them a good choice for the breeding fanatics too. They are fairly easy to sex owing to their minor difference in size – males only reach a maximum of 2.5 inches long, whereas females can often reach 3 inches. Feeding of live foods such as blood worms can help encourage engagement, but preferably, a dedicated breeding tank is suggested for the maximum success rate in raising their offspring.

Maximum Size – Males 2.5 inches, Females 3 inches

Temperature range: 72–78°F

pH range: 6.0–7.0

Level of Care: Easy

Tankmates: Other easy-going, community species

3. Bronze Cory (Corydorasaeneus)

Also, known in the hobby as Green Corydoras, the Bronze Corydoras has shimmering bright green rims on its otherwise pinkish body. An even-tempered catfish, they will blossom in any well-kept aquarium of a 20 Gallon capacity or more, as long as they have tankmates of their kind. An appealing and engaging peculiarity about all Corydoras is their comical habit of ‘blinking.’ The actual fact is that they are merely turning their eyes towards the bottom of the tank and then swiftly back up again. This is specifically apparent in this species, as their basic markings make their eyes more noticeable than some of the other Corys.

Maximum Size: 3 inches

Temperature range: 72–80 °F

pH range: 5.5–7.5

Level of Care: Easy

Tankmates: Peaceful, community species

4. Emerald Green Cory (Corydorassplendens)

This species has only of late been reclassified as a true Corydora and is just known as the ‘Emerald Catfish.’ It is the leading member of the genus that is easily available in any local aquarium store. It is a gentle giant, nevertheless, will get along with most other schooling species, including other Corys. Like any other Corydoras members, it will endure with most of the substrates, including regular aquarium gravel. Their real favourite, though, is aquarium sand as it matches the slow-moving tributaries and river bed situations from where they originate in South America. With a moderate level of care and with a good tank space, this catfish can live up to 12–13 years. Undoubtedly, one of the longest-lived members of the genus!

Maximum Size: 3.5 inches

Temperature Range: 68–82°F

pH Range: 5.8–8.0

Level of Care: Easy

Tankmates: Any reasonably friendly companions

5. Bandit Cory (Corydorasmetae)

Bandit Corys have a distinct magnetism of their own. With that enigmatic black stripe across their eyes, they have earned for themselves this demonstrative name that is certainly nothing to do with their temperament! They are likewise as tranquil and placid as the other members of their genus. An additional black stripe runs all the way from their tail base to their very prominent dorsal fin, giving a somewhat illustrious look. This is a minor member of the genus, and they also need marginally more specific temperature and pH requirements compared with some other species, making them less suitable for a beginner.Here You will get latest updates on the Cory catfish types

Maximum Size: 2 inches

Temperature Range: 72–79°F

pH: 6.5–7.0

Level of Care: Easy – Intermediate

Tankmates: Other smaller, peaceful schooling fish

6. Pygmy Cory (Corydoraspygmaeus)

This distinctive species of Corydoras is the smallest of the subfamily. Being just 1-inch long at maturity, they make a fantastic choice if someone is looking for a school of catfish in a small aquarium. Even a 50-litre tank is good enough to house 6 of these, so long as the aquarium has an adequate surface area. It is vital on the other hand that they are kept only with other peaceful species. Boisterous tankmates, with a probing habit of inhabiting mid-water may make them susceptible to other inhabitants of that layer.

Maximum Size: 1.3 inches

Temperature Range: 70–78°F

pH: 6.5–7.5

Level of Care: Intermediate

Tankmates: Be sure to accommodate only the peaceful ones.

7. Panda Cory (Corydoras panda)

As the most handsome member of the family, this cory variety is gracefully bejewelled with black patches around their eyes, which has gained them their popular name. This catfish requires somewhat more skill from the fishkeeper as they prefer a softly lit environment and a cautiously designed out bottom. Abundant of hiding places and preferably some thick vegetation will safeguard this shy catfish and make it feel safe and at ease. It is friendly with its kind and also seems to appreciate the close company of clown loaches. To keep them in the finest state of health, regular servings of bloodworm or brine shrimp will help keep them looking at their greatest.

Maximum Size: 2.5 inches

Temperature Range: 68–79°F

pH: 5.8–7.0

Level of Care: Intermediate

Tankmates: Other gentle schooling species

8. Three Stripe Cory (Corydorastrilineatus)

Often mislabelled in shops as Julii Cory, this kind of cory is far more commonly available than Julii Cory. The true Julii has more distinctive spots whereas the Three Stripe Cory has constant, twisty markings, with three stripes. It is a very beautiful catfish on its own and certainly deserves eclectic praise. This is another very under-demanding Cory variety, which simply needs basic minimum level of care. But in return, the tank’s substrate will remain to the optimum clean level as these play an important role as living vacuum cleaners in a community aquarium.

Maximum Size: 2.5 inches

Temperature Range: 72–78 °F

pH: 5.8–7.2

Level of Care: Easy

Tankmates: Other peaceful community species.

9. Skunk Cory (Corydorasarcuatus)

The Skunk Cory Cat adds a splash of drama to any home aquarium. Also known as Sands’ Cory Cat, Corydorasarcuatus is active, yet peaceful, especially when kept in small schools. Though other members of the Corydoras genus boast black stripes over their eyes and down the back, the back stripe of this Skunk Cory Cat splits just before the tail and trails down to colour the lower edge of the caudal fin. An uncommon behavioural trait of this species, as with other Corys, is their sporadic impromptu dash to water’s surface to gulp air. This evolutionary reworking helps to survive in stationary waters during periods of little rain in their natural habitat. This is normal and should be of no cause for concern about the water quality.

Maximum Size: 2 inches

Temperature Range: 72–79°F

pH Range: 6.8–7.5

Level of Care: Easy

Tankmates: Other peaceful community species.

10. Albino Cory (Corydoraspaleatus)

Albino Cory Catfish is sometimes called the Armored Catfish as it’s armoured as an alternative of scaled, nevertheless, it isn’t the true problematic Armored Catfish. The Albino Cory catfish has a white-coloured physique that may vary in tone and pink to gentle crimson eyes. It is a classic scavenger and will inhabit and feed on the aquarium floor, which should be comprised of sand or smooth gravel. Very coarse substrate can damage its delicate barbels and underbelly. The Albino Cory is a superb addition to a freshwater group aquarium. They don’t develop very massive so they could be put in a smaller tank with ease. Albino Cory is very full of life and is pleasant, which makes them attention-grabbing to observe.

Maximum Size: 2 inches

Temperature Range: 70–75°F

pH Range: 5.5–7.2

Level of Care: Easy

Tankmates: Other peaceful community species.

In their natural background of shallow South American river margins, streams, and ponds, many different members of the Corydoras family group together quite happily, and all of the members mentioned here will do the same in a community aquarium without any problems. The Golden Rule is to always accommodate a minimum of six of any one species of Cory in the aquarium.

Whichever Cory from the wide variety of corydoras you choose, you will not make a mistake. They are hardy, interesting, and – above everything else – easy to keep. These feats are among the main reasons these species are so popular, both with novice and experienced aquarists.