Macropterus Cory

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Sub-tropical species endemic to the southern Atlantic coastal basins in Brazil. Populates hilly rivers characterized by rapid currents, light pebbly bottoms, and very clear waters lashed by very cold temperate winds in winter.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Majestic siluriform separated from the Corydoras genus due to morphological divergences. "Macropterus" designates the absurd and gigantic "mantle" development of the male dorsal and pectoral fins. Very robust species that touches 8.5 - 9 cm (3.3-3.5 inches).

Social Behavior: Discreet territoriality among dominant males combined with the intrinsic need for a school: set up tanks for schools of 6-8 individuals. Less frantic in continuous rooting compared to Corydoras; prouder, more isolated, and meditated swimming.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Stunning sexual dimorphism. Breathtaking male, with a dark brown livery crossed by a bright yellow-gold ribbon, with an immense dorsal fin that touches the caudal and opercular "beard". The female is stocky, modestly spotted, and with very short fins.

Aquarium Setup: Spacious tanks for adult males, set up to simulate the sub-tropical stream: mixed fine sand/rounded river pebbles, massive smooth stones covered by a lively and prolonged current (essential movement pumps to emulate the habitat).

Diet and Feeding: Grain size and volumes must fulfill its great carnivorous-omnivorous needs: robust compressed tablets (bottom wafers) must stably alternate with generous protein injections of giant bloodworms, shelled shrimp, and mysis.

Water Quality: THE FISH DIES IF HOUSED AT CLASSIC TROPICAL TEMPERATURES. The water must NEVER exceed 23-24°C (73-75°F), preferring cold winter bands between 18-22°C (64-72°F). Requires monstrous oxygenation. Slightly acidic or neutral pH (6.0 - 7.2) and mild GH (2-12).

Compatibility and Tankmates: Excellent for tanks dedicated to Hillstream loaches and subtropical species of moving water, or Danios and White Cloud Mountain Minnows. Lethal and incompatible insertion in warm discus tanks, or with Asian Loaches that would nibble its fabulous nuptial drapes.

Aquarium Reproduction: Males exhibit bloody dominance rituals by opening their fleshy lobes (beard). The female attaches a few dozen large leathery eggs in turbulent corners on plastic surfaces or smooth stones. Move the parents or the eggs given the unstoppable gluttony.

Risks and Diseases: If the aquarium travels at a constant 26°C (79°F), the fish is subject to lightning-fast immunological decline and unstoppable bacterial breakouts. The wear on the barbels on sharp bottoms is deadly; hypersensitive to Copper and Malachite green.