The Sterbai Corydora is a small attractive catfish from South America that has been popular among aquarists ever since it was first introduced into the hobby. They are regarded as one of the most valuable cories because they’re one of the larger growing species, very flexible in their requirements and they just ooze class. This is one of the very few species of smaller community fish that can be kept alongside Discus because they can tolerate… indeed even thrive in higher temperatures.
Sterbai Corydora Set Up
Like all cories, the Sterbai needs a soft sand substrate to protect its delicate barbels from damage. They do require a fair amount of space, so a minimum of 90L should be considered for a shoal of at least 6. The tank should be furnished with bog wood and plants to offer this fish plenty of nooks and crannies to explore, as well as hiding spots. Plants are not typically found in their natural habitat, but captive specimens will enjoy them nonetheless. The substrate should be regularly maintained as these cories, like all others can be sensitive to dirty substrate and potentially lose their barbels. Under gravel filters are not recommended for cories in general because of this.
Sterbai Corydora Behaviour
They are a social species and should be maintained in a group of 6 or more individuals. This will help them feel more secure, which in turn will encourage them to be out in the open more consistently. Like all cories, they breathe atmospheric air intestinally on a regular basis and need to be able to access the surface of the water to do so. The spend much of their day rummaging for bits of food and don’t tend to concern themselves with other species of fish.
Tank Mates
Ideal tank mates would be other smaller shoaling species of fish. We recommend other South American species such as Apistogrammas, Angel Fish, Tetras. Avoid larger cichlids and anything too aggressive or boisterous as it will make the cories spend more time in hiding.
Feeding
Food can be offered in the form of catfish sinking wafers, micro pellets and fresh or frozen fish foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia and bloodworm.
If you have any questions about keeping these fish, please contact us and a member of our friendly tropical team will be more than happy to advise you on best practice.
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