The Sterbai Corydoras (Corydoras sterbai) is a hardy, peaceful, and popular freshwater catfish native to the Guaporé River region between Brazil and Bolivia. Known for its distinctive dark body covered in white spots and vibrant orange pectoral fins, it is a favourite for community aquariums.
Core Aquarium Requirements
To keep Sterbai Corys healthy, ensure your setup meets these specific needs:
Group Size: They are highly social and should be kept in schools of at least 6 to encourage natural behaviour and reduce stress.
Substrate: A soft sand or very fine, rounded gravel is essential to protect their sensitive, whisker-like barbels (sensory organs) from damage.
Tank Size: A minimum of 75L (20 gallons) is recommended for a small group.
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 24–28°C (they are more heat-tolerant than many other Cory species).
pH: 6.0–7.6 (ideally slightly acidic to neutral).
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (2–25° dH).
Diet and Feeding
Sterbai Corys are omnivorous scavengers that feed primarily at the bottom of the tank:
Staple Foods: High-quality sinking pellets, wafers, or tablets.
Proteins: Supplement with live or frozen treats like bloodworms, daphnia, or brine shrimp.
Vegetables: They occasionally appreciate blanched zucchini or spinach.
Note: While they scavenge leftover food, they are not algae eaters and require targeted feeding to thrive.
Compatibility and Behaviour
Tank Mates: Ideal companions include peaceful community fish like tetras, rasboras, guppies, and dwarf cichlids.
Avoid: Large or aggressive species that might outcompete them for food or harass them.
Surface Darting: It is normal for them to occasionally dash to the surface for a "gulp" of air; they are facultative air-breathers.
Toxin Release: Use caution when transporting them; they can release a chemical toxin when highly stressed, which is why they are often shipped alone.
Breeding Overview
Breeding is relatively easy and often triggered by a large, slightly cooler water change (simulating the rainy season).
Sexing: Females are generally larger, rounder, and broader when viewed from above, while males are slimmer.
Egg Laying: They deposit adhesive eggs on glass, broad leaves, or spawning mops.
Care: Adults do not provide parental care and may eat the eggs; for best results, move the eggs or the parents to a separate rearing tank.
SKU: RBM
