Ornate cory - Corydoras ornatus

Scientific name: Corydoras ornatus

Common name: Ornate 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 - 7.5

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

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 23 - 26 °C (73.4 - 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

Ornate corys should accept all foods that are offered. They should be given quality flakes or sinking pellets as their staple diet with the addition of sinking algae wafers. Corydoras ornatus will readily accept a weekly treat of blood worms or brine shrimp.

Origin

South America; Ornate corys are to be mostly found along the Rio Tapajos.

Sexing

When mature the females will be slightly larger, with a stockier outline.

Breeding

Cooler water changes will induce the spawning. The female will lay 3-4 eggs and carry them in her pelvic fins with the sperm to a spot where she will deposit them. This will be repeated until 100 eggs have been laid. They will hatch after 4-5 days and when the fry are free swimming, they can be fed on newly hatched brine shrimp or Infusoria.

Lifespan

The expected lifespan for Ornate cory is 5-6 years.

Short description

Corydoras ornatus belongs to a very peaceful species; as such they make great tank mates for a community set up. They need to be kept in groups of 6 or more.