Schwartz’s cory - Corydoras schwartzi

Scientific name: Corydoras schwartzi

Common name: Schwartz’s 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: 6 - 8

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 19°N (71.43 - 339.29ppm)

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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

Schwartz’s Cory (Corydoras schwartzi) is an omnivorous bottom-dweller, feeding on a variety of foods in its natural environment. In the aquarium, they will readily accept high-quality flake food and sinking pellets, which should form the base of their diet. It is also beneficial to offer shrimp pellets and algae wafers to meet their nutritional needs. As a treat, provide live or frozen foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp once or twice a week to keep them healthy and active. These fish are most active during the evening, so feeding them in the evening will mimic their natural behavior.

Origin

Schwartz’s Cory hails from the freshwater rivers and tributaries of South America, particularly in Brazil. They inhabit areas with slow-moving waters, soft substrates, and dense plant cover, which provides them with shelter and feeding opportunities.

Sexing

The females of this species are larger and have a rounder, more robust body, particularly when carrying eggs. Males are slightly smaller and have proportionally larger pectoral fins. These differences are most noticeable when viewed from above, making it easier to distinguish the sexes, especially during the breeding season.

Breeding

Breeding Schwartz’s Cory in the aquarium is possible and follows a similar pattern to other Corydoras species. Spawning is often triggered by cooler water changes, simulating the rainy season. During spawning, the female carries a few eggs between her pelvic fins and deposits them in hidden, safe locations, repeating the process until she has laid around 100 eggs. The eggs will hatch in approximately 3 to 4 days, and once the fry become free-swimming, they should be fed newly hatched brine shrimp or finely crushed fry food for healthy growth.

Lifespan

With proper care, Schwartz’s Cory can live for up to 5 years. Maintaining stable water conditions, offering a balanced diet, and providing a peaceful environment will help ensure they reach their full lifespan.

Tank Setup and Environment

Schwartz’s Cory prefers the bottom levels of the aquarium, so a soft substrate like sand or fine gravel is essential to protect their sensitive barbels. A tank of at least 40 liters (10 gallons) is recommended for a small group of 5 or more individuals. The water temperature should be kept between 22-27°C (71.6-80.6°F), with a pH range of 6 to 8, and a water hardness of 4-19°N (71.43-339.29 ppm). These fish appreciate a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots, such as plants, driftwood, and rocks. Schwartz’s Corys are peaceful and social, so they should be kept in groups to encourage natural behaviors and reduce stress.

Compatibility and Tank Mates

Schwartz’s Cory is a peaceful species, making them ideal for community tanks. They are compatible with other non-aggressive fish like Neon Tetras, Guppies, and Honey Gouramis. Avoid housing them with larger, aggressive fish that may see them as prey or harass them. These Corydoras are happiest when kept with other peaceful species and will thrive in a calm, well-maintained environment.

Short Description

Schwartz’s Cory (Corydoras schwartzi) is a small, peaceful catfish native to South America. Known for their calm temperament, they are perfect for community aquariums and should always be kept in groups of at least 5. These bottom-dwellers prefer soft substrates, such as sand, and enjoy hiding among plants and rocks. With a lifespan of up to 5 years, they are hardy fish, but they require stable water conditions and regular care to thrive.