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Adolfos Catfish - Corydoras adolfoi : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Adolfo's Cory (Corydoras adolfoi) is a prized possession in the aquarium world, known for its stunning colouration and peaceful nature. These sociable fish are relatively hardy and are perfect for both novice and experienced hobbyists. Keeping them in a group of at least six individuals is recommended to ensure they thrive and display their natural behaviours. Adolfo's Corys are great community fish and can be housed with other temperate species such as Tetras, Pencilfish, Dwarf Cichlids and smaller Barbs. However, it is crucial to avoid housing them with aggressive fish that may harm them.
To create a suitable habitat for Adolfo's Corys, a mature aquarium with fine sand or smooth gravel is ideal. Adding driftwood branches, aquatic plants and dried leaf litter will provide these fish with a secure environment and mimic their natural habitat. Regular water changes are also necessary to ensure their well-being. Adolfo's Corys are not fussy eaters and will enjoy a diversified diet of frozen, live and freeze-dried foods. Sinking pellets and algae wafers are recommended as they are bottom-dwelling fish. Feeding them with vegetables such as cucumber, spinach and peas will also provide them with a balanced diet. It is crucial to remove any uneaten food to avoid the build-up of waste in the tank. The Adolfo's Cory boasts a unique colouration, with a pinkish lower body that gradually fades to jet black on the upper half, resembling a saddle. The black stripe over their eyes and striking orangey-yellow patch on top of their head add to their distinctive appearance.
Adolfos Catfish Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between the male and female Adolfo's Cory, particularly when they are young, can present some difficulty. Nevertheless, females typically exhibit a larger and more robust body shape, particularly when gravid, while males are generally slimmer and smaller in size than their female counterparts.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Corydoras adolfoi |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1982 |
| Other Names | Adolfo's cory |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Siluriformes |
| Family | Callichthyidae |
| Genus | Corydoras |
| Origins | Brazil Trinidad and Tobago |
| Max Size | 6 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 5+ |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Layer |
| Lifespan | Up to 6 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| PH | 4.5 - 7.5 |
| GH | 4 - 18 |
| KH | 0 - 15 |
| TDS | 71.43 - 32 |
| ℉ | 66 - 78 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 19 - 26 |
Natural Habitat
Adolfo's Catfish are native to the upper Rio Negro, located on the equator near Sao Gabriel da Cachoeira in Brazil, South America. Adolfo's Catfish typically occupy clean, moderately flowing blackwaters in tributaries and areas of flooded forest. The water in their habitats is stained a dark colour due to the release of tannins, creating a unique and striking visual effect. Adding Adolfo's Catfish to your aquarium is an excellent way to showcase its unique beauty and contribute to its conservation efforts. So why wait? Explore the wonders of Adolfo's Catfish and bring a touch of South America into your home!
Breeding
The process of breeding Adolfo's Corys can be relatively straightforward with proper water parameters in a separate breeding tank. For successful breeding, it is recommended to have two males for every female and ample plants where females can attach their eggs. To encourage spawning, the water temperature should be lowered, oxygenation and flow should be increased, and this should be repeated daily until spawning occurs. Once the spawning is completed, it is advisable to either remove the eggs or the adults from the breeding tank. If you choose to move the eggs, ensure that you maintain the same water conditions and provide sufficient oxygen. Typically, eggs hatch after three to four days, and fry can be fed with live foods like microworm and baby brine shrimp. It is crucial to maintain a healthy environment for the fry to avoid any potential diseases, especially during their first few months.
Diet & feeding
Adolfo's Catfish are omnivores, and they will consume various types of food. A balanced diet consisting of live, frozen, and freeze-dried foods is ideal for these bottom-dwelling fish. Sinking pellets and algae wafers are particularly recommended to cater to their feeding behavior. In addition to protein-rich food, Adolfo's Catfish will also appreciate a serving of blanched vegetables, such as cucumber, spinach, and peas, for added nutrition. However, it is essential to remove any uneaten food before nightfall to prevent the accumulation of waste in the aquarium. A varied and nutritious diet will help keep these fish healthy and happy in their aquatic environment.
