Corydoras bifasciatus (Two-stripe Cory) 3″

Corydoras bifasciatus, commonly known as the Two-stripe Cory, is a peaceful freshwater fish from the Callichthyidae family. Native to the rivers of South America, particularly in the Amazon basin, this species is a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts due to its attractive markings and social behavior. Like other Corydoras species, it is a bottom-dwelling fish that thrives in groups.

• Size: Reaches an adult size of around 5-6 cm (2-2.5 inches).
• Coloration: The Two-stripe Cory has a light-colored or silver body, with two distinct dark horizontal stripes running along its sides—one along the midsection and another closer to the dorsal fin. These stripes are the most noticeable feature and give the species its common name.
• Body Shape: Like other Corydoras, they have a slightly rounded body and a downturned mouth with sensitive barbels, which they use to search for food in the substrate.

• Temperament: Corydoras bifasciatus is a peaceful and social species, thriving in groups. It is a shoaling fish, so keeping them in groups of 5 or more is recommended to ensure they feel secure and display natural behaviors.
• Activity: These fish are primarily bottom-dwellers, often seen scavenging in the substrate. They are diurnal, meaning they are most active during the day, although they may rest more often in dimly lit tanks.

• Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended for a group of Two-stripe Corydoras.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 22-26°C (72-79°F)
  • pH: 6.0-7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water
• Substrate: Soft, sandy substrate is ideal to protect their sensitive barbels from injury. Avoid sharp gravel.
• Filtration and Aeration: Moderate water flow with good filtration is necessary to maintain water quality. They prefer well-oxygenated water.
• Décor: They appreciate planted aquariums with plenty of hiding spots, such as driftwood, rocks, and caves. Dense plantings and floating plants that reduce light intensity can help create a more natural environment.

Corydoras bifasciatus is omnivorous and primarily scavenges for food at the bottom of the tank.

• Staple Foods: A diet of high-quality sinking pellets or tablets formulated for bottom feeders is ideal.
• Live/Frozen Foods: They enjoy occasional feedings of live or frozen foods, such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
• Vegetables: Blanched vegetables like zucchini or cucumber can also be offered, though they are not a primary part of their diet.

Breeding Two-stripe Corydoras can be achieved in well-maintained aquariums.

• Spawning: They typically breed after a large water change, simulating the rainy season in the wild. During breeding, the female lays eggs on flat surfaces, such as leaves or tank walls. The eggs are adhesive and will hatch in about 3-5 days.
• Conditioning: To encourage breeding, offer high-protein foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp, and perform regular water changes with slightly cooler water.

• Social Behavior: Corydoras bifasciatus is happiest in a group, so always keep them in small shoals of 5-6 fish or more.
• Barbel Care: Ensure the substrate is soft and free of sharp edges to protect their delicate barbels from damage or infection.
• Compatibility: They are peaceful and can be housed with other non-aggressive community fish, such as small tetras, rasboras, and other small to medium-sized peaceful species.

The Two-stripe Cory is an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists. Its peaceful nature, ease of care, and attractive appearance make it a wonderful addition to community tanks, particularly those with soft, sandy substrates and plenty of hiding spots.