Bluespotted Corydoras (Corydoras melanistius) Care Guide
Corydoras melanistius is a hardy armoured catfish from the Guianas and northern Brazil, finely spotted with a dark blotch on the dorsal fin.
Overview
Corydoras melanistius, the bluespotted cory, is an armoured catfish of the family Callichthyidae described by Regan in 1912. The specific epithet melanistius refers to its dark dorsal fin, translating roughly as "black sail". It is a robust, easily kept species with fine dark spotting over a pale body.
Taxonomy
- Family: Callichthyidae
- Genus: Corydoras
- Scientific name: Corydoras melanistius
- Described by: Regan, 1912
Habitat
The species occurs in coastal rivers of Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana and Suriname, in tropical freshwater inland waters. It is a bottom-oriented fish of soft-substrate habitats.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 100 L
- Temperature: 22-26 °C (72-79 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 2-15 °dGH
- School size: 6 or more individuals
- Lifespan: 5-10 years
Diet
An omnivore feeding on worms, benthic crustaceans, insects and plant matter in nature. In aquaria it accepts sinking dried foods complemented with live and frozen items.
Compatibility
A peaceful, hardy bottom dweller suited to community tanks. Best kept in groups of six or more with tetras, rasboras and dwarf cichlids; aggressive cichlids should be avoided.
Breeding
Corydoras melanistius is an egg-depositor. During spawning the female holds 2-4 eggs between her pelvic fins while they are fertilised, then attaches the sticky eggs to vegetation; the pair repeats this until roughly 100 eggs are laid, and the adults do not guard them. Breeding difficulty is considered intermediate.