Black band catfish - Corydoras zygatus

Scientific name: Corydoras zygatus

Common name: Black band catfish

Family: Callichthyidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 5 - 7 cm (1.97 - 2.76 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.2 - 7.2

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 6 - 19°N (107.14 - 339.29ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 26 °C (71.6 - 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

Food and feeding

Black band catfish will accept all foods. Use a quality flake for the staple diet but provide them with treats of blood worms or brine shrimp as well. Algae wafer will be readily accepted. Always ensure that these fish get there share of the food by feeding some in the evening as well.

Origin

South America; Black band catfish are to be found in the water ways of Peru.

Sexing

If viewed from above the females will look slightly larger and plumper.

Breeding

To induce spawning, plenty of large water changes are required. A trio of one male and two females seems to work best placed in a shallow tank with a gravel substrate. When the eggs have been laid, remove the parents. The eggs should hatch after 2-3 days and when the fry are free swimming they can be fed on newly hatched brine shrimp.

Lifespan

The expected life span for Corydoras zygatus is 3-5 years.

Short description

Always keep Corydoras zygatus in small groups. They tend to be more active at night so will need some hiding places in the daylight hours.

Pictures

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