Masquerade corydoras - Corydoras simulatus

Scientific name: Corydoras simulatus

Common name: Masquerade corydoras

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: 6.3 - 7.3

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 2 - 16°N (35.71 - 285.71ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 21 - 25 °C (69.8 - 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

Use a quality flake or sinking pellets for the staple diet. Vary this with the occasional meal of algae wafers and they will relish treats of blood worms and brine shrimp twice a week. As Masquerade corydoras are most active after lights out, this is a good time to feed these fish.

Origin

South America; Masquerade corydoras are to be found in the waterways of Colombia.

Sexing

When viewed from above the females will be slightly larger and have a stockier body shape.

Breeding

Perform regular water changes in the breeding tank with cooler water to trigger the spawning process. Corydoras simulatus are egg scatterers so add spawning mops to the tank, even though they may decide to use the tank glass, it will give them another option for a spawning site. Once the eggs have hatched and the fry are free swimming, they can be fed on Infusoria and newly hatched brine shrimp.

Lifespan

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

Short description

Masquerade corydoras are classed as a social species so should always be kept in small groups of at least 5 specimens. They should never be kept with boisterous tank mates as they cannot compete for food. Use sand or fine gravel as the substrate in the tank to protect their delicate barbels.

Pictures

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