Sterbai Corydoras

The Sterbai Corydoras (Corydoras sterbai) is a truly captivating addition to any freshwater aquarium. These charming catfish, native to the Guaporé River region between Bolivia and Brazil, are renowned for their striking appearance and peaceful nature.

Their most distinctive feature is their unique coloration. They possess a dark body adorned with a captivating pattern of white spots, creating a mesmerizing contrast. This striking pattern, combined with their vibrant orange pectoral and pelvic fins, makes them a visually stunning addition to any aquarium.

Beyond their striking appearance, Sterbai Corydoras are peaceful and social fish, making them excellent additions to community aquariums. They are happiest when kept in schools of at least five or more individuals, where they engage in playful interactions and explore the aquarium together. Observing their lively antics as they school together and sift through the substrate can be incredibly entertaining.

Sterbai Corydoras are not only visually appealing but also beneficial for the aquarium ecosystem. As bottom-dwelling scavengers, they help to keep the substrate clean by sifting through it in search of food, contributing to a healthier and more balanced aquarium environment.

By providing them with the right tank conditions and compatible tank mates, you can enjoy the vibrant beauty and peaceful presence of Sterbai Corydoras, a truly captivating addition to any well-maintained community aquarium.

Key Characteristics:

• Size: They grow to a maximum size of about 2.7 inches (6.8 cm).
• Coloration: They have a distinctive pattern of white spots on a dark background, especially noticeable on their head. Their pectoral and pelvic fins are a vibrant orange.
• Temperament: Sterbai Corydoras are peaceful and social fish, making them excellent additions to community aquariums. They are happiest when kept in schools of at least five or more individuals.
• Care Requirements:
  • Water Parameters: They thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH of 6.0-7.5, a temperature range of 70-77°F (21-25°C), and moderate hardness.
  • Diet: They are omnivores and can be fed a variety of flake foods, frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp, and live foods like daphnia and mosquito larvae.
  • Tank Setup: A well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding spots is ideal for these fish. They enjoy swimming in the middle and upper levels of the water column.

Compatibility:

Sterbai Corydoras are peaceful and can coexist with a wide range of other peaceful community fish, including:

• Other Tetras: Neon Tetras, Glowlight Tetras, Rummynose Tetras, Black Skirt Tetras
• Rasboras: Harlequin Rasboras, Scissortail Rasboras
• Danios: Zebra Danios, Celestial Pearl Danios
• Corydoras Catfish: Peppered Corydoras, Panda Corydoras
• Dwarf Gouramis: Honey Gourami, Sparkling Gourami
• Kuhlis Loaches
• Otocinclus Catfish

Important Considerations:

• Schooling Behavior: Keeping them in schools of at least five or more individuals is crucial for their well-being and to showcase their natural behavior.
• Water Quality: Maintaining good water quality is essential for their health. Regular water changes and proper filtration are necessary.

By providing the right tank conditions and compatible tank mates, you can enjoy the vibrant beauty and peaceful presence of Sterbai Corydoras in your aquarium.