Burgess's Corydoras

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Endemic to the northern Rio Negro basin in Brazil, specifically near the Uaupés River. Frequents classic igapó environments (flooded forests) and small slow-moving tributaries, with tannin-infused blackwater, sandy bottom, and leaf litter.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Species discovered relatively recently (1987) by Dr. Warren Burgess. Has the short, blunt snout typical of many species in the genus. The body is robust and moderately compressed laterally, with a standard adult length of about 5 - 5.5 cm (2-2.2 inches). Well-evident bony plates.

Social Behavior: Of an exceptionally peaceful and sociable nature, it must categorically be kept in groups of at least 6-8 individuals. If kept in small numbers, it becomes stressed, and prone to diseases. Spends most of its time patrolling the substrate.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Silvery-white or pale cream base coloration, embellished by an obvious vertical black mask covering the eye. Unlike C. adolfoi (with which it is often confused), it has a black spot on the dorsal fin that fades towards the back, and a very bright orange-gold patch on the nape. Females are noticeably more swollen and wider.

Aquarium Setup: A bottom of very fine and smooth river sand (absolutely not sharp) is mandatory. Create semi-shaded areas using intricate trunks, branches (driftwood), and plants like Echinodorus. Add dry leaves (Catappa or Oak) to release tannins and simulate the original blackwaters.

Diet and Feeding: Benthic carnivore / omnivore. Feeding solely on leftovers is lethal. Provide a balanced diet based on protein sinking wafers, supplemented 2-3 times a week by small live or frozen food (Tubifex, Bloodworms, Brine shrimp, Daphnia).

Water Quality: Sensitive to nitrogenous compounds, requires very clean water. Ideal temperature between 22 and 26°C (72-79°F). Very soft to soft hardness (GH 2-12). The pH should be slightly acidic or neutral (6.0 - 7.2), although wild specimens require pH close to 5.0.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: Perfect coexistence in peaceful South American biotope community tanks. Excellent with small Tetras (Neons, Cardinals), peaceful Loricariids, Apistogramma, and Dicrossus. Under no circumstances should it be paired with large territorial Cichlids or aggressive earth-eaters (giant Geophagus).

Aquarium Breeding: Typical Corydoras reproductive model: stimulated by drastic cold water changes (mimicking the rainy season). The eggs are attached to the glass or broad leaves. Fecundity rate is relatively low compared to more common species like aeneus.

Risks and Diseases: If housed on rough gravel, the barbels wear out quickly exposing it to lethal bacterial infections and preventing it from feeding. Extreme sensitivity to salt (sodium chloride) and copper- or malachite green-based medications.