Breeding Corydoras eques (Horseman Cory)

Breeding guide for Corydoras eques: sexing, conditioning, the cool-water trigger and its tendency to deposit eggs near the surface.

Overview

Corydoras eques is an armoured catfish (family Callichthyidae) from the Amazon River at Codajás, Amazonas, Brazil, reaching about 40–50 mm. It is an egg-depositor that spawns in the Corydoras T-position and is best kept in a group of at least 4–6 individuals.

Sexing

Females tend to grow larger, and sexually mature individuals are noticeably rounder and higher-bodied than males, most obvious from above when females are gravid.

Conditioning

Condition adults on a varied diet of small live and frozen foods until the females are full of eggs. Maintain a ratio of 2 males per female if possible.

Breeding Setup

• Temperature: 20–26 °C
• pH: 6.0–8.0
• Hardness: 36–268 ppm
• Provide floating vegetation, as this species tends to deposit eggs close to the water surface; glass, fine-leaved plants and mops are also used

Spawning Behavior & Trigger

Trigger spawning by performing a large (50–70%) water change with cooler water and increasing oxygenation and flow. Repeat daily until the fish spawn. The female cups the sticky eggs between her pelvic fins, fertilises them in the T-position, and tends to deposit them close to the surface, so floating plants should be provided.

Egg & Fry Care

Incubation is normally 3–4 days. Once the yolk sacs are absorbed, fry accept small live foods such as microworm and Artemia nauplii. They require excellent water quality and are less susceptible to ailments over a thin layer of sand than on a bare bottom.