Peppered Corydoras

(BEGINNER FISHKEEPERS)

A project for a potentially unheated temperate tank, a single-species shoal of Corydoras is a delight that engages in behaviour rarely seen in a mixed group. Point in case, Peppered Corydoras will play a game of ‘follow my leader’ with one individual leading a long conga on a trip around the tank whenever it moves. Also, the spawning antics of a shoal of C. paleatus are prodigious — they produce eggs near constantly, especially if you do the occasional cool waterchange.

●Scientific name: Corydoras paleatus

●Size: Females to 7.5cm, males to 5cm

●Origin: Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay

●Habitat: Streams and pools, often heavily vegetated

●Tank size: 80x50x30cm (go for a big footprint instead of high volume)

●Water requirements: Slightly acidic to neutral water; 5.8-7.2pH, 2-12°H 6Temperature: 15-25°C

●Temperament: Peaceful community species

●Feeding: Ensure sinking foods like catfish pellets, as well as live and frozen treats like bloodworm

●Availability and cost: Readily available, prices from £3.50 each

●Suggested shoal size: 12 upwards