False bandit cory - Corydoras melini

Scientific name: Corydoras melini

Common name: False bandit cory

Family: Callichthyidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 5 - 6 cm (1.97 - 2.36 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.5 - 7.5

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

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 27 °C (71.6 - 80.6°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

Corydoras melini thrive on a balanced diet rich in vegetable matter. Offer sinking algae wafers or spirulina pellets to ensure they receive adequate nutrition at the bottom of the tank. Supplement with protein-rich treats like bloodworms, mosquito larvae, daphnia, and small crustaceans to mimic their natural diet. Feed in the evening when they are most active.

Origin

False bandit corys are native to South America, specifically the upper Rio Negro and Rio Meta basins in Brazil and Colombia. They inhabit slow-moving, shaded streams and flooded forest areas with sandy or muddy bottoms and abundant leaf litter.

Sexing

Sexual dimorphism is subtle but noticeable. Mature females are slightly larger and rounder in the abdomen, especially when viewed from above. Males tend to have a slimmer body shape.

Breeding

Corydoras melini breed similarly to other Corydoras species. After courtship, the female lays 2–4 sticky eggs at a time on aquarium glass, plant leaves, or decor, which are fertilized by the male. This process is repeated until around 100 eggs are laid. Eggs hatch in 3–5 days, and fry can be fed with infusoria followed by newly hatched brine shrimp.

Lifespan

With proper care and stable water conditions, Corydoras melini can live for 5–7 years, sometimes longer in well-maintained aquariums.

Short Description

Known as the "False bandit cory" due to its resemblance to Corydoras metae, Corydoras melini is a peaceful bottom-dweller ideal for planted community tanks. It is best kept in groups of at least 5 individuals to encourage natural schooling behavior and reduce stress. The tank should have a soft sand substrate to protect their sensitive barbels, and include shaded areas created by driftwood, leaf litter, and plants.

Recommended plant species include Cryptocoryne, Java fern, Amazon sword, and floating plants like Salvinia to diffuse light. Suitable tankmates are other small peaceful species such as neon tetras, rasboras, Otocinclus, and other Corydoras species. Provide good filtration and perform regular water changes to maintain water quality.

Pictures

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