Bannertail corydoras - Corydoras robinae

Scientific name: Corydoras robinae

Common name: Bannertail corydoras

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: 6.3 - 7.7

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 5 - 18°N (89.29 - 321.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 25 °C (71.6 - 77°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

Food and Feeding

Bannertail Corydoras are omnivorous and thrive on a varied diet. Provide a staple diet of high-quality sinking pellets or flakes, supplemented with occasional treats like bloodworms, brine shrimp, or daphnia twice a week. Feeding them in the evening aligns with their natural activity patterns, ensuring they can forage comfortably in a community setting.

Origin

Native to South America, Bannertail Corydoras are primarily found in the freshwater systems of Brazil and Peru. These regions are characterized by soft, slightly acidic to neutral water, with dense vegetation providing natural hiding spots. The rivers they inhabit often feature sandy substrates, ideal for their bottom-dwelling behavior.

Sexing

Sexing Bannertail Corydoras is straightforward when they reach maturity. Females are larger and exhibit a plumper body shape when viewed from above. Males, by contrast, are slimmer and more streamlined.

Breeding

Breeding Corydoras robinae in captivity is notably challenging, and most specimens available in stores are wild-caught. In their natural habitat, they reproduce by scattering eggs on plants, substrate, and other surfaces, such as rocks. This method of reproduction ensures that eggs are distributed across multiple areas, increasing the likelihood of survival in the wild. To attempt breeding in an aquarium, provide a well-planted tank with excellent water quality and mimic seasonal changes by performing cooler water changes. Additionally, ensure that suitable surfaces, such as broad-leaf plants or smooth decorations, are available for egg attachment. However, even under ideal conditions, successful breeding is rare.

Lifespan

With proper care and a stable environment, Bannertail Corydoras can live for 3-5 years. Maintaining a clean, well-filtered tank and offering a balanced diet contribute significantly to their longevity.

Tank Setup and Behavior

Bannertail Corydoras thrive in peaceful, planted aquariums with plenty of hiding spots created by driftwood, rocks, and dense vegetation. A sandy or fine gravel substrate is essential to protect their sensitive barbels, which they use for foraging. These social fish should always be kept in groups of at least five individuals, as solitary Corydoras can become stressed or inactive.

They are bottom dwellers and spend much of their time sifting through the substrate for food. Their peaceful nature makes them ideal tank mates for other non-aggressive fish, such as small tetras, rasboras, or other bottom-dwelling species.

Short Description

Corydoras robinae, also known as the Bannertail Corydoras, is a rare and sought-after species among aquarists. Their attractive appearance, peaceful temperament, and compatibility with community tanks make them a desirable addition for experienced and beginner hobbyists alike. Due to their rarity, they are often priced higher than more common Corydoras species. Their care requires attention to substrate type, water quality, and the inclusion of hiding spaces to mimic their natural habitat.

Pictures

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.