Care
This charismatic little Cory caused a real stir when first introduced to the hobby and wild collected specimens were initially rare and expensive, costing around £50 each. Thanks to the efforts of breeders, it has now become familiar species and is widely kept in community tanks worldwide. Like all of its kin, this fish is best kept on a soft sand substrate where it can root around and forage without risk to its barbels which can be damaged by abrasion and bacterial infections from the accumulated waste that often builds up in coarse gravel. Filtration should be efficient with areas of moderate water movement and a decent level of oxygenation. Regular maintenance, including frequent partial water changes, should be carried out in order to keep these fish in good condition. Provide plenty of shady areas amongst driftwood, rocks, and areas of dense planting. As a social species, they should be kept in groups of 5 or more. Other peaceful species such as some of the smaller pencilfish, tetra, and rasboras make ideal tankmates, and their presence as “dither fish” in midwater will encourage the Corydoras out into view more often. These fish have the ability to breathe air intestinally, so a small gap should be left between the surface of the water and the cover slides in order for the fish to come up to the surface and take air in. They may do this numerous times per day, depending on temperature and oxygen levels.
Hoplisoma was recently split from Corydoras and contains many familiar species.
Feeding
Sinking catfish pellets, frozen foods such as mosquito larvae and brineshrimp.
Breeding
Mature pairs can be triggered into spawning by performing a large, slightly cooler water change. The pair will adopt the classic “T position” where the male fertilises the eggs that are held between the female”‘s pelvic fins. The adhesive eggs will then be deposited onto plants, decor, or the sides of the aquarium etc and the process repeated. The eggs generally take 4-5 days to hatch after which time the tiny fry should be offered finely powdered first foods. A few days later they will be able to take newly hatched brineshrimp. To avoid predation and ensure a higher success rate, many fishkeepers move the parents to another aquarium after the eggs have all been deposited.
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