Sterbas Cory Cat

General information

These fish are black with white spots. They can reach 2.6 inches. Corys are facultive air breathers due to their highly vascularized intestine so they often go to the surface for a gulp of air. To keep these fish in captivity, water pH should be between 6.0 and 7.6 and water temperature should range from 73ºF to 79ºF. The tank should have a sandy substrate, it should be dimly lit and have a few driftwood branches and plants. It is a peaceful species and can be kept in a community aquarium as long as its tankmates are peaceful. This species should be kept in groups of 5 or more.

This species is omnivorous. It can be fed with sinking pellets and with live and frozen foods. They may be bottom dwellers and eat some leftovers but they should not be expected to survive simply on those.

Mature females are larger and rounder than males.

To breed this species in captivity, water temperature should be around 75ºF and water pH should be around 6.5. It is recommended to have 2 males per female. Once the females get larger, meaning they are full of eggs, water should be changed for cooler water and with increased oxygenation. Once spawning behavior begins, the males will chase the female around and then they will perform the T-position and the eggs will be fertilized. Once the eggs are fertilized, the adults should be removed to prevent them from eating the eggs. The eggs take 3 to 5 days to hatch and the fry will feed on their yolk sac.

This species can be found in Bolivia and Brazil.

Corys have hardened pectoral spines that are able to pierce human skin so these fish should be handled carefully. This spines get easily entangled in a net’s mesh so a plastic container should be used to move them.

It is very important to keep a clean aquarium to prevent any damage to the barbels of the fish.