Adolfo’s cory - Corydoras adolfoi

Scientific name: Corydoras adolfoi

Common name: Adolfo’s cory

Family: Callichthyidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 4 - 5 cm (1.57 - 1.97 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 5.5 - 7.5

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 18°N (71.43 - 321.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 19 - 26 °C (66.2 - 78.8°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Tank Requirements

Adolfo’s Cory (Corydoras adolfoi) is a small, peaceful species of catfish native to the middle regions of the Amazon River in Brazil, specifically the Rio Negro and Rio Uaupes. They are best kept in groups of 5 or more, as they are social fish that thrive in shoals. A tank size of at least 60 liters (15 gallons) is recommended, with plenty of open swimming space at the front of the tank.

Water conditions should be maintained with a temperature between 19-26°C (66.2-78.8°F), a pH range of 5.5-7.5, and water hardness between 4-18°N (71.43-321.43 ppm). Use soft sand or smooth gravel as a substrate to prevent damage to their delicate barbels. Plants such as Amazon Swords or Cryptocoryne provide excellent hiding spots, while driftwood or rocks can be used to create shaded areas. A gentle filtration system is ideal to maintain clean, well-oxygenated water without creating a strong current, as Corydoras prefer calm environments.

Tankmates

Adolfo’s Cory is a peaceful species, making them ideal companions in a community tank with other calm, similarly sized fish. They will coexist harmoniously with various species, particularly those that also prefer softer, acidic water. Some compatible tankmates include:

Food and Feeding

Adolfo’s Corydoras are bottom feeders, so it is essential to provide sinking foods that reach the substrate. They will readily accept a variety of foods, including high-quality sinking pellets or wafers. To keep them in optimal health, it is recommended to supplement their diet with live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, or daphnia. Feeding them once or twice a day is sufficient, but care should be taken not to overfeed, as uneaten food can quickly pollute the water.

Occasionally, offer them blanched vegetables like zucchini or cucumber as a treat, which can also aid in their digestion. Ensure all food is appropriate for their small mouths and reaches the bottom where they primarily feed.

Sexing

Sexing Adolfo’s Cory is relatively simple. Females are usually larger and have a rounder, fuller body, especially when viewed from above, while males remain slightly smaller and more slender. During breeding periods, females will become noticeably plumper as they fill with eggs.

Breeding

Breeding Adolfo’s Corydoras in home aquariums can be relatively easy under the right conditions. To encourage spawning, perform regular water changes to simulate the clean, fresh water of their natural environment. The female will lay between 20-30 eggs in each batch, and she creates a pouch using her pelvic fins to carry the eggs to a safe location, such as the underside of plant leaves or on the tank glass.

The eggs will hatch in about 3-5 days, depending on the water temperature, and the fry will become free-swimming after another few days. Initially, feed the fry infusoria or newly hatched brine shrimp, transitioning them to finely crushed flake food as they grow. The fry should be kept in clean water with frequent small water changes to ensure their healthy development.

Lifespan

With proper care, Adolfo’s Cory can live for up to 5 years in a well-maintained aquarium. Regular water changes, a balanced diet, and peaceful tankmates will help them thrive and live a long life.

Short Description

Adolfo’s Corydoras are a small, peaceful species that add a lot of activity and charm to the bottom of the aquarium. They are best kept in groups of 5 or more to encourage their natural behavior, and they thrive in well-maintained tanks with clean water and plenty of hiding spaces. Providing a varied diet and a comfortable environment will ensure that these fish stay healthy and active in your aquarium for many years.