CORYDORAS ARAGUAIAENSIS

Corydoras araguaiaensis is a charming and lesser-known species of Corydoras catfish native to the Araguaia River basin in Brazil. These peaceful, bottom-dwelling fish are ideal for community tanks and are celebrated for their hardiness and active, social behavior. Below is a detailed care guide to help you maintain a healthy and thriving group of these delightful fish.

Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons for a small group (6+ individuals).
• Tank Setup:
  • Provide plenty of hiding places using driftwood, rocks, and live or artificial plants.
  • Open swimming space is essential, as they are active scavengers.
• Substrate: Soft sand is ideal to protect their sensitive barbels. Avoid sharp gravel.
• Water Flow: Moderate flow, replicating their natural stream habitats.
• Lighting: Low to moderate lighting to reduce stress and mimic their native environment.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 72–79°F (22–26°C)
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (2–12 dGH)
• Ammonia/Nitrite: Always 0 ppm; nitrates should be kept below 20 ppm.
• Water Changes: Perform weekly 20–30% water changes to maintain excellent water quality.

Diet

Corydoras araguaiaensis are omnivores and enjoy a varied diet:

• Staple Foods: High-quality sinking pellets or wafers.
• Live/Frozen Foods: Bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and tubifex worms.
• Vegetables: Occasionally offer blanched vegetables like zucchini or spinach.
• Feeding Schedule: Feed once or twice daily in small quantities. Ensure food reaches the bottom where they can access it.

Behavior and Compatibility

• Temperament: Peaceful and social; best kept in groups of 6 or more to encourage natural behaviors.
• Tankmates:
  • Suitable companions include small to medium-sized peaceful fish like tetras, rasboras, and dwarf cichlids.
  • Avoid large, aggressive species or fish that may nip at their fins.
• Activity Level: Active during the day, especially in groups, and constantly scavenging the substrate.

Breeding

Breeding Corydoras araguaiaensis is possible with the right conditions:

1. Spawning Setup:
   • Use a separate breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water (pH ~6.5).
   • Include fine-leaved plants or spawning mops for egg-laying.
2. Triggering Breeding: Perform cooler water changes to mimic the rainy season and feed high-protein live or frozen foods.
3. Egg Care: Remove the eggs or adults post-spawning to prevent predation.
4. Fry Care:
   • Feed newly hatched fry with infusoria or powdered fry food.
   • Gradually transition them to baby brine shrimp as they grow.

Common Challenges

1. Barbel Damage: Ensure a soft substrate and clean water to prevent infections or injuries to their sensitive barbels.
2. Group Size: Keeping fewer than six individuals may result in stress or shy behavior.
3. Water Quality: Sensitive to poor water conditions, so regular maintenance is crucial.

Interesting Facts

• Corydoras araguaiaensis exhibit shoaling behavior, making them a joy to watch as they interact and forage together.
• Their playful nature and peaceful temperament make them an excellent choice for community tanks.
• Like other Corydoras, they can occasionally gulp air from the surface using their specialized intestines, a behavior evolved for low-oxygen environments.

With proper care, Corydoras araguaiaensis can thrive in your aquarium, providing activity and charm as they scavenge and interact with their group. Their hardiness and adaptability make them a great addition for both beginner and experienced aquarists.