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freshwaterCorydoras
Corydoras sterbai
Also known as: Sterbai Cory, Sterbai Corydoras
BeginnerPeacefulOmnivore
About
Sterbai’s cory is a favourite warm-water Corydoras from the upper Amazon in Brazil, named for its bold head mesh and spotted body, with orange to reddish pectoral-fin bases in healthy fish. It prefers stable, clean water on the warm side of tropical—often kept with discus or other soft-water South Americans. Like all corys it needs smooth sand, a group of six or more, and varied sinking foods. Egg scatterer; adhesive eggs on glass, plants, or spawning mops; no care of young.
Feeding & Diet
Sinking pellets or wafers; frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, or daphnia; occasional vegetable tabs.
Frequency: 1–2× daily
Warm water increases metabolism—ensure food reaches the substrate in community tanks.
Habitat
Native Region: Brazil (upper Rio Guaporé / upper Amazon basin)
Clear and blackwater tributaries with sand, wood, and leaf litter.
Soft sand, warm stable temperature, good filtration without strong current; excellent in planted South American biotopes.
Behavior
Activity Level: Moderate
Schooling Size: 6+ recommended
Peaceful shoaler; keep in species group; avoid cold drafts or sudden temperature drops.
Breeding
Difficulty: Moderate
Type: Egg scatterer
Sexual Dimorphism: Females wider when viewed from above; males may be slightly smaller and slimmer.
T-position spawning; eggs on glass and broad leaves; soft, warm water and water changes can stimulate breeding.
Tank Setup
Substrate: Sand
Plant Safe: Yes
Driftwood and leaf litter optional for natural look; open sand foraging areas.
Your tanks
Add this species to a saved tank stocking list.
Care Requirements
Family
Callichthyidae
Genus
Corydoras
Maximum Size
6.5 cm
Minimum Tank Size
75 liters
Temperature
24-28°C
pH Range
6-7.6
Tank Region
Bottom
Lifespan
10–15 years
Growth Rate
Moderate
Min Group Size
6+ fish
Activity Level
Moderate
Breeding Difficulty
Moderate
Breeding Type
Egg scatterer
Native Region
Brazil (upper Rio Guaporé / upper Amazon basin)
Substrate
Sand
Plant Safe
Yes
Good Tank Mates for Sterbai Corydoras
These species are known to coexist peacefully and share compatible water conditions.
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