Click to enlarge
Skunk Corydoras
The Skunk Cory Cat adds a splash of drama to any home aquarium. Also known as Sands' Cory Cat, Corydoras arcuatus is active, yet peaceful, especially when kept in small schools. Though other members of the Corydoras genus boast black stripes over the eyes and down the back, the back stripe of this Skunk Cory Cat splits just before the tail and trails down to color the lower edge of the caudal fin. In most species, this black stripe does not split and instead continues along the caudal fin's upper edge.
Just as active as other Corydoras, the Skunk Cory Cat thrives in peaceful community aquariums with like sized fish. Primarily bottom dwellers, Corydoras are adept at cleaning excess food from aquarium substrate. Their most playful antics come, however, when an entire group speeds to the water's surface to feed on flake or other foods. For optimal health, feed these omnivores a varied diet of flakes, tablets, shrimp pellets, tubifex, or other frozen foods.
Native to the Rio Unini, a whitewater area of the Rio Negro River in Brazil, the Skunk or Sands' Cory appreciates water currents more so than other members of the Corydoras genus. In the home aquarium they do best in sandy substrates surrounded by areas of moss, ferns, and other plants.
Like other Cory Cats, this species will spawn their eggs on aquarium glass, driftwood, or amongst the stalks of plants. Males are slightly slimmer than females, especially when viewed from above. To offer the best chance of fry survival, feed microworms 3-4 days after hatching and separate the fry from larger fish that may see them as food.
The Bottom Crew
One of the first bottom feeding fish many aquarists purchase is the Cory cat or one of its relatives. There are over 170 recognized species of Corydoras, with 100+ species yet to be given scientific names. They belong to the Family Callichthyidae and range throughout South America, from the Andes Mountains to the Atlantic coast, and from Trinidad to northern Argentina. Cory Cats are peaceful bottom feeders that can be kept in community aquariums. They are heavily armored and have sharp spines on their pectoral and dorsal fins. Care should be taken when handling them, as some species have a mild toxin in their spines.
Natural Habitat for Corydoras
Corydoras catfish inhabit smaller streams and rivers, backwaters, oxbows, ponds and marshy environments. The water is clear, slow moving and relatively shallow. The bottom is typically made up of sand or detritus and the shoreline often has dense plant growth, offering them cover.
Water Requirements for Corydoras
Corydoras catfish are found in soft water with a low pH in the wild, however, many species sold today are commercially raised and tolerate a much wider range of water chemistry. A pH between 6.5 and 7.5, and temperature between 22° and 27° F are ideal conditions for most captive bred Cory cats and their relatives. Pristine water quality is essential to good health in these catfish. They should never be added to new aquariums or those that have been neglected. Maintain good filtration and do a 10% water exchange every two weeks or 25% once a month .Don’t forget to treat tap water with Water Conditioner before refilling your aquarium!
Housing Recommendations for Corydoras
A 90 Litre aquarium is best for most species, although pygmy Corys such as C. hastatus, C. habrosus and C. pygmaeus can be kept in smaller aquariums. Because these fish like to congregate in groups, open areas should be available near the front of the tank. Some cover should also be provided for them to take refuge in. Substrate should be sand or fine gravel with rounded edges. Avoid jagged materials that could damage their barbels as they forage along the bottom.
Corydoras Behavior/Compatibility
Corydoras catfish are shoaling fish, meaning they like to hang out together. Different species can be mixed and they will often group together. For best results, they should be purchased in groups of 5 or more. These catfish will sometimes dart to the surface to gulp air. This behavior is normal, however, gasping at the surface constantly may be an indication of water quality problems or low oxygen content. Unlike many catfish, which are nocturnal and can be secretive, Corys and their relatives tend to be out and about during the daytime. They can be kept with most peaceful community fish. Because different species attain various sizes as adults, species selection should be based on tank size and the types of fish you keep. Always consult an aquarium expert before buying any new fish for your aquarium.
What Do Corydoras Eat?
Corydoras catfish and their relatives are omnivores and typically feed on the bottom, although it is not uncommon for them to learn to come to the surface for food when hungry. Bottom Feeder Tablets, Shrimp Pellets, Tropical Granules and Algae Rounds are all excellent foods for these catfish. For best results feed a variety of high quality foods, and rotate your fishes’ diet daily. Feed only what your fish can consume in 2 to 3 minutes, once or twice a day.