Many-spotted cory - Corydoras polystictus

Scientific name: Corydoras polystictus

Common name: Many-spotted cory

Family: Callichthyidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 3 - 4 cm (1.18 - 1.57 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 5.7 - 7.8

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 2 - 25°N (35.71 - 446.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 28 °C (71.6 - 82.4°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

Introduction

Corydoras polystictus, commonly known as the Many-Spotted Cory, is a peaceful and social bottom-dwelling fish native to the rivers of Paraguay and Brazil in South America. Their small size, gentle temperament, and attractive spotted pattern make them an excellent choice for community tanks, especially those with soft substrates and a calm environment.

Food and Feeding

Many-Spotted Corys are omnivorous and will readily accept a variety of foods. Provide high-quality flake or sinking pellet food as their staple diet. To ensure they receive enough food, consider feeding them at dusk when other tank inhabitants are less active. Offer live or frozen treats such as bloodworms or brine shrimp twice a week to enhance their health and vitality. Always ensure the food reaches the substrate where they can access it.

Habitat and Tank Requirements

To replicate their natural habitat, use a sandy substrate to protect their sensitive barbels. Include plenty of hiding places with driftwood, rocks, and plants such as Amazon Swords (Echinodorus bleheri), Anubias (Anubias barteri), and Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus). Maintain water parameters with a pH range of 5.7-7.8, hardness of 2-25°N (35.71-446.43 ppm), and a temperature between 22-28°C (71.6-82.4°F). Regular water changes are crucial to maintain pristine water quality, as this species is sensitive to deteriorating conditions.

Sexing

Sexing Many-Spotted Corys is relatively straightforward. Females are slightly larger and have a stockier body shape compared to males, especially noticeable during the breeding season.

Breeding

Breeding Corydoras polystictus in aquariums is relatively straightforward with proper preparation. Condition the breeding pair or group with live or frozen foods for two weeks. During spawning, the female collects eggs and sperm in the "T" position using her pelvic fins. She then deposits the eggs on plants, substrate, or the tank glass. The eggs hatch within 3-5 days. Once the fry are free-swimming, feed them Infusoria or newly hatched brine shrimp. As they grow, crushed flake food can be introduced gradually.

Lifespan

Corydoras polystictus has a relatively long lifespan, living up to 10 years when provided with proper care and a stable environment.

Behavior and Compatibility

Many-Spotted Corys are peaceful and thrive in groups of at least five. Their calm nature makes them ideal for community tanks with non-aggressive tank mates. Suitable companions include Neon Tetras (Paracheirodon innesi), Harlequin Rasboras (Trigonostigma heteromorpha), and Otocinclus Catfish (Otocinclus affinis). They can also coexist with peaceful cichlids, such as Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) or Apistogramma species. Avoid boisterous or aggressive fish, as these can intimidate Corydoras and outcompete them for food. Providing a calm, planted environment allows them to display their natural behaviors.

Short Description

Corydoras polystictus, or Many-Spotted Cory, is a peaceful and social bottom-dweller that thrives in planted aquariums with soft substrates. Their gentle nature, compatibility with other peaceful species, and ease of care make them an excellent choice for community setups. With proper care, they can live up to 10 years, providing long-term enjoyment for aquarists.