False Adolfo's Corydoras

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Endemic to the upper Rio Negro basin in Brazil (Poranga region). Exclusive species of the classic Amazonian "blackwaters" very rich in humic acids.

Taxonomy and Morphology: False Adolfo's Cory (Corydoras duplicareus). Almost indistinguishable to the naked eye from C. adolfoi. The distinguishing features are the wider black dorsal stripe and the inner serrated edge of the pectoral spines (visible with a magnifying glass).

Social Behavior: Very compact group. They love to sift the sand moving in unison. Like almost all corys, they can periodically dart to the surface to store air.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Light beige body. Massive black band running from mid-back to tail. Dark mask on the eye and a vivid (and very extensive) fluorescent orange spot on the back/nape. Females noticeably stockier than males.

Aquarium Setup: 80 cm (32 inches) tank. Absolute obligation of extra-fine sand so as not to damage the animal, lots of leaf litter on the bottom (Oak, Beech, Catappa) to simulate the habitat and amber the water.

Diet and Feeding: Excellent appetite for small aquatic invertebrates. To be fed with omnivorous bottom wafers, fine granules and, above all, lots of frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp or mysis. Food to be distributed in the evening.

Water Quality: Extremely sensitive to water quality. Nitrates must remain close to zero, otherwise rapid erosion of the barbels and generalized infections will occur. Requires soft and sweet waters.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Suitable only for docile tankmates occupying the upper water column. Nannostomus (pencilfish), small Paracheirodon, or peaceful dwarf cichlids.

Aquarium Reproduction: Spawning is often induced by cold thermal shocks and drops in atmospheric pressure (thunderstorms). The female attaches surprisingly large and very sticky eggs on the glass.

Risks and Diseases: Terribly fears sharp bottoms. Can secrete, in cases of extreme panic (such as during netting), a toxic mucus that in tight spaces proves fatal.