Sychr's Cory

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Exclusive to the upper Amazon basin (Rio Nanay) in Peru. Prefers amber forest waters ("blackwater"), with weak water currents, shaded by thick lianas and riparian vegetation, which guarantee deeply sandy bottoms and fallen leaf litter.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Corydoras of the Callichthyidae family belonging to the elegant long-snouted strain. Settling at 5.5 cm (2.2 inches), it boasts a morphology structured for the tireless penetration of the head into the sandy layers in search of micro-annelids.

Social Behavior: Of an exceptionally serene nature. It is a victim of lethargic stress if bred in pairs: it is reborn only in a cohesive school of at least 6-8 members. Group dynamics give them the courage to rummage with impunity throughout the tank.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Refined and sober design: silvery/white livery finely embroidered with black micro-dots that thin out towards the belly. The facial mask is absent. Females stand out for their marked abdominal swelling when viewed from above, compared to the more linear males.

Aquarium Setup: Strict obligation: only fine-grained silica sand to preserve the integrity of the mouthparts. Greatly appreciates the insertion of oak or catappa leaves and the use of large intricate woods to shield strong lights.

Diet and Feeding: Bottom micro-predator specialized in digging. Requires a menu based on crumbled protein tablets that are fast to sink. The generous and tri-weekly administration of live or frozen food is mandatory: brine shrimp, daphnia, and large tubifex.

Water Quality: Near zero tolerance for ammonia and nitrites. Optimal values: constant 22-26°C (72-79°F). The pH should preferably be between 6.0 and 7.2 (acidic/neutral), accompanied by low hardness (GH 2-12). Meticulous biological filtration and light RO changes.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Wonderful together with characin tetras such as Paracheirodon innesi, and peaceful dwarf cichlids. Absolutely contraindicated cohabitation with large Cichlids (very large Symphysodon, Astronotus) or restless Loaches that will completely inhibit its foraging.

Aquarium Reproduction: Inducible by simulating abundant fresh Amazonian-style downpours (drastic thermal and RO drops). The act (T-position) ends by depositing a few but robust eggs on the glass or smooth surfaces. The adult does not hesitate to feed on them: isolate quickly.

Risks and Diseases: Fungal necrosis of the barbels on sharp gravels is fatal and irreversible. Manifests toxicological hyper-sensitivity to intensive treatments with copper sulfate or formalin to treat Ichthyophthirius. Use half prophylactic doses.