Adolfo's cory

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Endemic to the upper Rio Negro basin and its tributaries in Brazil. Populates rivers of very pure blackwaters, strongly acidic and colored by tannins, with a very white sand bottom and intricate branches.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Adolfo's Cory (Corydoras adolfoi). Short-snouted Corydoras, very similar to Corydoras duplicareus (from which it differs by the thickness of the black band and the serration of the pectoral spines).

Social Behavior: Extremely peaceful and playful. Must live in groups of at least 6-8 individuals. They often rest stacked on top of each other on the broad leaves of Echinodorus or Anubias.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Unmistakable and highly sought-after livery: ivory white/pinkish beige body. A sharp black mask covers the eye, while a thick black stripe runs along the back. A bright neon orange spot stands out on the nape.

Aquarium Setup: Needs very fine sand. Being a shy fish native to dark waters, strong light will terrify it: use floating plants, peat and lots of wood. Minimum tank size 80 cm (32 inches).

Diet and Feeding: Omnivorous micro-predator. High quality bottom granules, frozen bloodworms, tubifex and brine shrimp. It is essential not to overload the bottom with putrefying food to avoid bacterial infections to the delicate barbels.

Water Quality: More demanding than other Corydoras: the black waters of the Rio Negro are sterile and bacteria-free. It is vital to keep nitrates at 0-10 ppm with frequent water changes and ensure soft and acidic water (pH < 7.0).

Compatibility and Tankmates: Perfect tankmate for Rio Negro biotopes: fantastic with Discus (if the temperature is not extreme), Cardinals, Nannostomus and small dwarf cichlids. Botias are absolutely forbidden as they would torture them.

Aquarium Reproduction: Requires the "monsoon simulation" technique (large cold water change). The female will attach up to 30 huge (compared to other corys) sticky eggs on the glass or under leaves in the range of the filter current.

Risks and Diseases: Corrosion of the barbels due to unsuitable bottoms (gravel). They are known to release a powerful toxin into the water if stressed to death (e.g. if poorly bagged for shipping), poisoning themselves and their companions.