Eques Corydoras / Horseman's Cory

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Amazon River basin (Brazil). Inhabits open waters in clear streams and shaded oxbow lakes, with sandy bottoms and the presence of fallen branches and leaves.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Horseman's Corydoras (Corydoras eques). Species with a relatively short snout, whose name ("horseman") refers to the elegant orange/rust band that crosses the head and back like a cloak.

Social Behavior: One of the most distinctly schooling species: the synchronized swimming of a large group of C. eques is spectacular. Very peaceful, they spend the day methodically exploring the sand.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Spectacular base coloration of dark metallic green/blue on the flanks, in sharp contrast with the vivid burnt orange (or rust-colored) band covering the nape, part of the back and pectoral fins. Females more robust.

Aquarium Setup: Very fine sand bottom is mandatory to protect the barbels and allow natural digging. The addition of dry leaves and roots that slightly amber the water will enhance the metallic coloration.

Diet and Feeding: Micro-predator. Likes live or frozen food such as brine shrimp, tubifex and daphnia, but easily gets used to sinking dry feeds and specific tablets for bottom fish.

Water Quality: Sensitive to nitrate pollution and bottom cleanliness. Requires clear, soft and slightly acidic waters, well filtered but with non-excessive currents on the bottom.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Excellent inhabitant for peaceful South American tanks. Ideal together with peaceful upper-zone fish (Tetras, Hatchetfish) and dwarf Cichlids that are not too aggressive on the bottom.

Aquarium Reproduction: Not very easy. Requires rainy season simulations with massive cold water changes to trigger the amorous chases and the adhesion of eggs on glass or plants.

Risks and Diseases: Extremely susceptible to barbel corrosion and subsequent fungal infections if kept on sharp gravel or in aquariums with poor bottom maintenance.