Dwarf Corydoras | Corydoras hastatus
Catfish / Callichthyidae / Dwarf Corydoras
Profile: Dwarf Corydoras, Pygmy Corydoras, Tail Spot Pygmy Catfish, Mini Spotlight Corydoras
Corydoras hastatus
Synonyms: Microcorydoras hastatus
Physical description: The body of the Dwarf Corydoras is slightly more elongated than the "typical" Corydoras shape. The body is translucent and white to pale green in color. The caudal peduncle is marked with black spot which is surrounded by a thin white marking. A thin black line extends from the midsection back to the black marking on the caudal peduncle.
Size/Length: To 1" (2.5 cm)
Similar species: None
H: Along banks of small-moving tributaries of the Paraguay and Amazon rivers. South America; Mato Grosso, Brazil
A: middle. The Dwarf Catfish is a member of a small group of Corydoras catfish that swim in mid-water. This group also includes C. habrosus and C. pygmaeus ,
Aquarium: 16" (60 cm) or 5 gallons (19 L). The tank should be heavily planted to provide hiding places for this small catfish. Although this Corydoras is a mid-water swimmer, a fine gravel or sand substrate should be used as the Dwarf Corydoras will occasionally burrow. This catfish enjoys swimming into a moderate current that can be created by a power or canister filter. The Dwarf Corydoras occasionally likes to rest on a flat stone or broad leafed plant. Use bright lighting.
Water chemistry: pH 6-7.8 (7.0); 2-20 dH (10); 75-82°F (24-28°C)
Social behavior: A peaceful fish that can be kept in a community tank with small and peaceful fish. This schooling fish should be kept in groups of eight or more. Do not combine with medium to large sized fish as this cory is an easy meal.
Social behavior: Small tetras, Apistogramma, Corydoras, Peckoltia, Colisa
FOOD: Small live foods; small aquatic insects, white worms, Tubifex , Brine Shrimp, insect larvae; tablets; small flakes; will nibble algae
Suggested companions: Males are usually not more than 3 / 4 " (1.9 cm), while females reach 1.2 (3 cm) and are plumper.
Breeding techniques: Spawning is initiated by the addition of cooler water. The eggs are deposited in Java moss. Transfer the eggs to a rearing tank. Start feeding with Artemia .
Breeding potential: 7. This catfish is a fairly difficult to breed.
Difficulty of care: 4. A hardy fish recommended for most community tanks with smaller fish.