Banded Cory (Scleromystax barbatus)
Care level: Easy
Max Size: 10cm
Temp: 18-25°C
PH: 5.5-7
Approximate purchase size:
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Community
fish is currently only sold on a pre-order basis as we don't regularly stock them, but would like to give our customers the opportunity to order them if they so wish.
The Banded Cory is an ideal bottom feeder for most temperate aquariums. It's one of the few cories that appreciate lower temperatures and will do really well alongside many temperate species, but it is quite a sensitive fish when it comes to water quality. It's best to add them to mature aquariums only and filtration must be excellent. Include areas of high current to ensure high levels of oxygen is available for the fish as well as some resting areas with gentler flow. The aquarium should be fully furnished with rocks, bog wood and plenty of plants to provide the fish with natural stimulation, shady spots and hiding places. Substrate must be soft sand to protect the delicate barbels of this fish.
Like all cories, they are a shoaling species and should be kept in a group of 4 or more individuals. Being peaceful in nature makes them great tank mates for many species of other peaceful shoaling fish such as tetras, barbs and even angelfish. Whilst they are a peaceful species, the males can become quite aggressive towards one another when the females are in prime breeding condition, so it's important to ensure that there's enough space for more than one male in the aquarium.
Food can be offered in the form of catfish sinking wafers or catfish pellets as well as fresh or frozen fish foods such as brine shrimp and daphnia.
If you have any questions about keeping this fish, please contact us and a member of our friendly store team will be more than happy to answer all of your questions
Why not check out our other photos of some of the best livestock to have graced our tanks!
