Sterbai Corydoras
Corydoras sterbai
Description
Sterbai Corydoras is a striking freshwater catfish known for its light-colored body adorned with dark spots or patterns that vary from fish to fish. Their coloration ranges from pale cream to yellow with black or dark brown spots, which make them visually unique compared to other Corydoras species. They have a slightly elongated body, covered with bony plates that protect them from predators. Sterbai Corydoras are peaceful, active bottom dwellers that prefer to school together. They are often seen rummaging through the substrate with their barbels in search of food, and their gentle nature makes them ideal for community aquariums.
Habitat Origin
Native to the slow-moving rivers and streams of the Orinoco and Amazon basins in South America, particularly in Brazil and Venezuela. They thrive in warm, slightly acidic waters with soft substrates like fine gravel or sand.
Aquarium
Ideal Number in Aquarium: At least 4-6 individuals, as they are schooling fish and feel more secure in groups.
Favorite Food
Sterbai Corydoras are omnivores and enjoy a variety of foods, including high-quality sinking pellets, flakes, live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. They also forage for detritus, algae, and leftover food in the substrate. A varied diet is essential to maintain their health and vibrancy.
Behavior:
Sterbai Corydoras are peaceful, social fish that do well in community aquariums. They are bottom-dwellers and are often seen foraging through the substrate for food. As schooling fish, they are happiest when kept in groups, where they exhibit natural social behavior. These fish are not aggressive and typically do not compete for space or food. They may be seen swimming in the lower to middle sections of the tank, often near plants, rocks, and other hiding spots.
Special Care:
Sterbai Corydoras require a soft, fine substrate, such as sand, to avoid injuring their sensitive barbels. They also need plenty of hiding spots, like caves or plants, to feel secure. Good filtration and regular water changes are necessary to keep the water clean, as these fish are sensitive to poor water quality. They are also sensitive to high levels of copper, so care should be taken when using medications in the tank. Additionally, providing calcium-rich foods like cuttlebone or crushed coral can help ensure healthy bone and shell growth.
Compatibility with Other Fish:
Yes, Sterbai Corydoras are compatible with a wide variety of peaceful fish, such as tetras, rasboras, small cichlids, and shrimp. They should be kept with other non-aggressive species, as they are peaceful and non-territorial. However, they may not fare well with larger, more aggressive species that might view them as food. Their peaceful nature and bottom-dwelling habits make them great companions for other bottom-feeding species that won’t compete with them for food or space.
Breeding Tank Setup
A separate breeding tank is strongly recommended for Sterbai Corydoras to prevent eggs and fry from being eaten and to better control water conditions. A 10-gallon (38-liter) tank is adequate for a small breeding group, while a 20-gallon (75-liter) setup is more suitable for larger groups. Maintain water conditions at pH 6.0–7.5, temperature 24–28°C (75–82°F), and hardness 4–10 dGH. Use fine gravel or sand as substrate and add live plants like Java moss, Anubias, or Hornwort to give the eggs hiding places. A gentle sponge filter ensures clean water without creating strong currents, and moderate lighting on a 12-hour cycle helps simulate natural day-night conditions.
Conditioning for Breeding
Before breeding, provide a high-protein, varied diet to condition the adults. This includes bottom-dweller pellets, live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms, and blanched vegetables like spinach or peas. Weekly 20–30% water changes help maintain excellent water quality. To trigger spawning, perform a larger 50% water change and increase the temperature slightly to around 28°C (82°F) to replicate the rainy season—a natural spawning cue for Corydoras.
Spawning Behavior
Spawning usually happens in the early morning after a water change or temperature rise. Males will chase and court females, who then lay 50–150 small, sticky eggs on surfaces such as plants, tank walls, or decorations. The eggs are then fertilized externally by the male. To protect the clutch, remove the adult fish immediately after spawning, as Corydoras often consume their own eggs if left in the tank.
Fry Care
Sterbai Corydoras eggs hatch in about 3–5 days, depending on temperature. After hatching, fry consume their yolk sacs for nourishment. Once free-swimming, offer infusoria or liquid fry food, then gradually introduce baby brine shrimp, microworms, or finely crushed flakes. Keep water quality high by doing small, frequent water changes (10–20%) every day or two. Maintain a stable temperature between 24–28°C, and avoid overfeeding, as decaying food can quickly compromise water quality.
Additional Notes
Sterbai Corydoras are typically ready to breed at around 6 months of age. Males are smaller and slimmer, while females are larger and rounder, especially when carrying eggs. During the breeding season, males may show brighter fin coloration and increased activity. To maximize success, avoid sudden changes in water parameters and ensure a peaceful tank environment with no aggressive tank mates. Clean water, consistent care, and a balanced diet are key to successful breeding.