Common Name: Concolor Cory Catfish
Scientific Name: Corydoras concolor
Other Names: Slate Cory, Blue Cory
The Concolor Cory Catfish is a unique and less common species of Corydoras, known for its dark, slate-gray to bluish-brown coloration that gives it a striking appearance compared to the more traditionally patterned Corydoras species. It is a peaceful bottom-dweller that thrives in groups and is highly valued for its hardiness and adaptability in a well-maintained community aquarium.
Habitat and Distribution:
Native to Venezuela, Corydoras concolor is found in the slow-moving tributaries of the Orinoco River. These waters are typically shaded by dense vegetation, with sandy or muddy substrates, leaf litter, and submerged roots. The environment consists of soft, slightly acidic to neutral water with moderate flow.
Size and Lifespan:
The Concolor Cory grows to about 2.5-3 inches (6-7.5 cm) in length. With proper care, they can live for 8-10 years, making them a long-term addition to a community aquarium.
Diet and Behavior:
This species is an omnivore and thrives on a varied diet that includes:
- High-quality sinking pellets or wafers
- Frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia
- Blanched vegetables such as zucchini or spinach
- Occasional treats like insect larvae or crushed flakes
They are peaceful, social fish that should be kept in groups of at least 5-6 individuals. Like other Corydoras, they spend most of their time foraging along the substrate, using their sensitive barbels to locate food. They are highly active during the day and can occasionally be seen darting to the surface to gulp air, a natural behavior due to their ability to utilize atmospheric oxygen.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding Corydoras concolor in captivity is possible with the right conditions. They are egg scatterers, laying eggs on smooth surfaces such as plant leaves, glass, or decorations. To encourage spawning:
- Perform frequent water changes with cooler water to mimic rainy season conditions
- Provide plenty of hiding spots and broad-leaved plants
- Feed a protein-rich diet leading up to spawning
After spawning, adults may eat the eggs, so it is best to remove the parents or transfer the eggs to a separate rearing tank. Eggs hatch in 3-5 days, and fry should be fed infusoria or finely crushed flakes until they can eat baby brine shrimp.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended for a group, though a larger tank is ideal for more stable water conditions. The ideal setup includes:
- Substrate: Soft sand to protect their delicate barbels
- Decor: Driftwood, leaf litter, and caves to mimic their natural environment
- Filtration: Gentle filtration with sponge or canister filters
- Water Movement: Low to moderate flow to replicate river conditions
- Lighting: Dim to moderate, with floating plants to provide shade
Ideal Tank Mates:
Concolor Corys are peaceful and thrive in community tanks with other non-aggressive fish. Suitable tank mates include:
- Small peaceful tetras (Cardinal, Rummynose, Ember Tetras)
- Dwarf cichlids (Apistogramma, Mikrogeophagus ramirezi)
- Small rasboras and danios
- Other Corydoras species
- Peaceful dwarf gouramis
Avoid large, aggressive cichlids or fish that may outcompete them for food.
Difficulty Level:
Beginner to Intermediate. They are hardy and adaptable but require stable water conditions and a soft substrate to prevent barbel erosion.
Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 72-80°F (22-27°C)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- General Hardness (GH): 2-12 dGH
- Carbonate Hardness (KH): 2-8 dKH
- Ammonia: 0 ppm
- Nitrite: 0 ppm
- Nitrate: <20 ppm (regular water changes required)
Additional Information:
- Their coloration can shift slightly based on mood, lighting, and diet, sometimes appearing more bluish or greenish under different conditions.
- They are known for their playful and curious nature, often seen interacting with tank mates.
- Unlike many Corydoras, the males tend to have a slightly more elongated body, while females are rounder, especially when carrying eggs.
The Concolor Cory Catfish is a peaceful and hardy species that brings activity and charm to a freshwater community aquarium. With proper care, they make an excellent addition for aquarists looking for a unique Corydoras species that stands out from the more commonly available varieties.
