Bronze Cory Catfish (Corydoras aeneus)
The Bronze Cory Catfish is a hardy, peaceful bottom-dweller known for its social nature and adaptability. It is one of the most popular Corydoras species in the aquarium hobby due to its ease of care and ability to help keep the substrate clean.
Key Information:
• Maximum Size: Typically grows to 2.5–3 inches (6–7.5 cm) in length.
• Native Habitat: Found in South America, particularly in the Amazon River Basin, Venezuela, Colombia, Argentina, and Trinidad. They inhabit slow-moving waters with sandy or muddy bottoms.
• Growth Rate: Steady; reaches about 1.5 inches (4 cm) in the first year, with full growth in 1.5–2 years.
• Life Span: Usually 5–7 years, but can live up to 10 years with excellent care.
• Diet: Omnivorous, feeding on:
• Sinking pellets and algae wafers
• Blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, spinach)
• Protein-rich foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia
• Leftover food from other fish, helping keep the tank clean
• Breeding Season: Can breed year-round in captivity if provided with good water conditions.
• Egg scatterers—females lay eggs on glass, plants, or decorations.
• Males fertilize the eggs, and females carefully place them.
• Eggs hatch in about 3–5 days, and fry can eat baby brine shrimp or finely crushed flakes.
• Best Tank Mates:
• Peaceful community fish (Tetras, Rasboras, Guppies, Mollies)
• Other Corydoras species
• Small Plecos (like Bristlenose Plecos)
• Shrimp and snails
• Avoid aggressive fish like large Cichlids, which may harass or eat them.
Additional Care Tips:
• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons, as they prefer being in groups of 5 or more.
• Water Conditions:
• Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)
• pH: 6.5–7.5
• Soft to moderately hard water
• Tank Setup:
• A soft sandy substrate is ideal to protect their sensitive barbels.
• Provide hiding spots with driftwood, caves, and plants.
• Good filtration and aeration are important since they occasionally swim up to gulp air.
• Behavior: Highly social and active, best kept in groups for a natural and stress-free environment.
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