Two-Saddle Corydoras (Corydoras weitzmani) Care Guide
Corydoras weitzmani is a Peruvian armoured catfish with two dark saddles, long known only from old specimens until its rediscovery in 2004.
Overview
Corydoras weitzmani is an armoured catfish of the family Callichthyidae described by Nijssen in 1971. It is distinguished by two dark saddle-shaped markings across the back and a dark band through the eye. For decades it was known only from a handful of old specimens, raising doubts about its survival, before being rediscovered in the wild in 2004.
Taxonomy
- Family: Callichthyidae
- Genus: Corydoras
- Scientific name: Corydoras weitzmani
- Described by: Nijssen, 1971
Habitat
The type locality was originally listed as the Vilcanota river system near Cusco in southern Peru, but the collecting information proved inaccurate. The species was rediscovered in the Madre de Dios region of Peru in 2004 by ornamental fish collectors. It is a demersal freshwater fish associated with cooler waters.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 80 L
- Temperature: 20-24 °C (68-75 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 2-12 °dGH
- School size: 6 or more individuals
- Lifespan: 5-8 years
Diet
An omnivore (trophic level around 3.0) that forages along the bottom, accepting sinking prepared foods alongside live and frozen items.
Compatibility
A peaceful bottom dweller best kept in groups of six or more on soft substrate. Suitable companions include tetras and Apistogramma; aggressive fish should be avoided.
Breeding
Corydoras weitzmani is an egg-depositor; breeding difficulty is considered intermediate.