Napo Corydoras

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Napo River basin in Ecuador and Peru. Inhabits moderate-flowing rivers, often in sediment-laden whitewater, with soft bottoms and fallen logs.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Napo Corydoras (Corydoras napoensis). Also belongs (like C. elegans) to the group of Corydoras that like to swim in the water column and not just stay on the bottom.

Social Behavior: Accentuated gregariousness. They form very cohesive groups that hover in mid-water or rest on large leaves at mid-height (e.g. Echinodorus or Anubias).

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Chromatically splendid males: gray with marked black stripes and reticulations, an obvious black spot on the dorsal fin (with a white edge) and intense golden reflections on the snout. Females are drab and stocky.

Aquarium Setup: Minimum 60 cm (24 inches) tank. In addition to the usual obligation of the sand bottom (no sharp gravel), it particularly appreciates a layout rich in broad-leaved plants on which to "land" and rest.

Diet and Feeding: Benthic-pelagic. They often grab food while it falls in mid-water, before it touches the bottom. Pellets, fine sinking flakes and frozen food (brine shrimp, daphnia) are the ideal nourishment.

Water Quality: Require oxygenated and clean waters. Moderately tolerant of GH and pH, they are instead extremely sensitive to high nitrates or organic muddy deposits on the bottom.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Excellent inhabitant for peaceful South American community tanks, will never show aggression towards Dwarf Cichlids, Tetras, Otocinclus or shrimp.

Aquarium Reproduction: Extremely fecund. Males engage in frantic chases towards females following massive changes with colder water (by 2-4°C / 4-7°F). Eggs typically laid on the walls of the tank in large quantities.

Risks and Diseases: They are sensitive to medicines containing Copper (used against snails or ectoparasites), which are very often lethal at normal dosages.