Sterba’s corydoras - Corydoras sterbai

Scientific name: Corydoras sterbai

Common name: Sterba’s corydoras

Family: Callichthyidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 5 - 7 cm (1.97 - 2.76 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.2 - 7.8

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 12°N (71.43 - 214.29ppm)

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

Origin

Sterbai Corydoras come from South America, where they are commonly found in shallow waters and tributaries in Brazil and Bolivia.

Lifespan

With proper care, Sterbai Corydoras can live for 3 to 4 years.

General care

Most Sterbai Corydoras available for purchase today are tank-bred, making them more adaptable to varying water conditions compared to their wild counterparts. These fish typically grow to about 6.3 cm (2.5 inches) in size. They thrive in a well-planted aquarium, but if using gravel as a substrate, ensure it is smooth to prevent injury to their barbels. Unlike some other Corydoras species, Sterbai Corydoras prefer slightly warmer water temperatures. They require high water quality, so regular water changes and a good filtration system are essential. It’s also beneficial to provide them with plenty of hiding spots and a soft substrate, as this mimics their natural habitat and helps reduce stress.

Food and feeding

When feeding Sterbai Corydoras, avoid using general fish foods that may not reach the bottom where these fish feed. Instead, offer sinking pellets or tablets designed for bottom feeders. They also enjoy vegetable-based foods like spirulina pellets, as well as meaty options such as bloodworms or brine shrimp. Since they are more active in the evening, it's best to feed them at this time, ensuring they get their share before other fish consume most of the food.

Sexing

The simplest way to differentiate between male and female Corydoras is to look from above. Females have a rounder, fuller body shape, especially when carrying eggs, and are generally slightly larger than males.

Breeding

Breeding Sterbai Corydoras is relatively straightforward. Aim for a pH level of approximately 6.8 to 7.0 and ensure the carbonate hardness (KH) is at least 4 to support the survival of the fry. These fish prefer heavily planted tanks, which increases the likelihood of successful spawning and fry survival. The eggs are transparent, and the fry hatch within 3 to 4 days. Protect the eggs from snails and other fish that might consume them. Once the fry are free-swimming, they can be fed algae and finely crushed food. Avoid using a filter during breeding to prevent the newborns from being sucked in and potentially harmed.

Pictures

We thank Aaron Gatt Floridia for providing some of the pictures. The remaining images were purchased from jjphoto.dk.