Sterba's Cory Catfish (Corydoras sterbai) is among the most popular of the numerous currently known species within the Corydoras genus, and this can be credited to its beautiful markings. Its head features white dots on a black background, which is a very unique characteristic for corydoras, as most of them have these colors reversed. The body is speckled with both black and white dots that provide an absolutely stunning contrast, especially with its orange pectoral fins. Much like its cousin, the Peppered Cory (Corydoras paleatus), this catfish exhibits very interesting and often playful behavior. It is fairly small (they grow to a maximum of about 2-1/2 inches), so it is ideal for the home aquarium.
Care is very easy for this catfish as long as it has stable water parameters in a well-maintained aquarium. It does best in a tank with smooth substrate (such as sand or polished gravel), as it is a bottom-dwelling scavenger whose underside is easily scratched by jagged substrate. This species should be kept in groups of 6 or more specimens. The Sterba's Cory Catfish is omnivorous and it requires a varied diet of high-quality dry, frozen, and live foods of appropriate size. It is very peaceful and generally safe to keep with other peaceful fish, snails, adult dwarf shrimp, and live plants.
What We Like About This Fish:
- Striking dappled pattern on the whole body
- Interesting and playful behavior
- Safe with plants
- Completely peaceful
- Possible to breed in the home aquarium
RECOMMENDED TANK PARAMETERS:
- Temperature: 73° - 79° F (23° - 26° C)
- pH: 6.0 - 7.6
- KH: 0 - 15 dKH
- Minimum tank size: 10 gallons
CARE GUIDELINES:
- Diet: Omnivorous. High-quality flake, pellet and wafer foods as well as frozen foods such as bloodworms and tubifex.
- Social behavior: Peaceful; requires a school of 6 or more to thrive.