Saddle corydoras - Corydoras ephippifer

Scientific name: Corydoras ephippifer

Common name: Saddle corydoras

Family: Callichthyidae

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

014

Recommended pH range for the species: 6.4 - 7.2

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 3 - 21°N (53.57 - 375ppm)

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

The Saddle Corydoras (Corydoras ephippifer) thrives on a varied diet. Provide high-quality flake food, sinking pellets, or algae wafers as their staple diet. Twice a week, supplement their meals with live or frozen treats such as brine shrimp and bloodworms to ensure balanced nutrition. As these fish are most active during the evening, feeding them at this time allows them to access food without competition from faster tankmates.

Origin

The Saddle Corydoras is native to South America, specifically the waterways of Brazil. These habitats feature soft, slightly acidic to neutral water with sandy or fine gravel substrates. The rivers are often slow-moving and densely vegetated, providing plenty of shelter and foraging opportunities. Common plants in their natural habitat include species of Echinodorus and floating plants that help diffuse light. Replicating these conditions in an aquarium supports their natural behaviors and ensures their well-being.

Sexing

Sexing Corydoras ephippifer is easiest when viewing them from above. Females are slightly larger and have a rounder, plumper body shape compared to the slimmer males. These differences become more noticeable during the breeding season.

Breeding

There are no documented cases of Corydoras ephippifer breeding in captivity. However, it is believed that they follow the same spawning habits as other Corydoras species. In the wild, females typically lay adhesive eggs on flat surfaces such as leaves, tank walls, or substrate, which are then fertilized by males. To encourage breeding in aquariums, maintain pristine water conditions, slightly cooler water temperatures, and provide plenty of smooth surfaces or plants like Echinodorus bleheri or Echinodorus major for egg deposition. Feed fry with infusoria or finely crushed flakes once hatched.

Lifespan

With proper care, the Saddle Corydoras can live 3-5 years. Stable water conditions, a nutritious diet, and a stress-free environment are key to ensuring their longevity.

Tank Setup

To create an ideal habitat for Saddle Corydoras, set up a well-planted aquarium with a minimum size of 60 liters (~16 gallons). Use a soft, sandy substrate or fine, rounded gravel to protect their delicate barbels. Include plenty of hiding spots with rocks, driftwood, and live plants like Anubias, Java Fern, Amazon Swords, and Vallisneria spiralis. Floating plants such as Salvinia or Frogbit can help diffuse light and create a more natural environment. Maintain water parameters within their ideal range: pH 6.4-7.2, hardness 3-21°N (53.57-375 ppm), and temperature 22-27°C (71.6-80.6°F). Gentle water flow and regular water changes are essential to keep the environment clean and oxygenated.

Compatible Tankmates

The peaceful nature of Saddle Corydoras makes them an excellent addition to community aquariums. Suitable tankmates include Neon Tetras, Harlequin Rasboras, Ember Tetras, Otocinclus Catfish, and Angelfish. Other peaceful South American species such as Rummy Nose Tetras and Cardinal Tetras are also excellent companions. Avoid housing them with aggressive or territorial species that may stress or harm them. Keeping them in groups of at least six individuals enhances their social behavior and overall health.

Short Description

The Saddle Corydoras (Corydoras ephippifer) is a peaceful, bottom-dwelling species that thrives in well-planted aquariums with plenty of hiding spots. Their gentle temperament and manageable size make them an excellent choice for community tanks with similarly peaceful fish. Proper care, including a soft substrate and high water quality, ensures these charming fish remain healthy and active in their environment.