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Maximum size : 5 cm
Bandit Corydoras - Corydoras metae : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
Bandit Corydoras are very common in the hobby and are suitable for beginner aquarists as they are a very hardy species. These Corys also make fantastic community aquarium fish due to their small size and peaceful nature. However, to create a beautiful display and let these sociable, shoaling fish feel more comfortable, you should keep them in groups of at least six, preferably more. Soft sand substrates are ideal for keeping Bandit Corydoras so they can root around and forage without risk of abrasion and bacteria from accumulated waste; coarse gravel can damage their barbels. For filtration to be efficient, there should be moderate water movement and a decent level of oxygenation. For these fish to remain healthy, regular maintenance, including periodic partial water changes, is necessary. Make sure there are plenty of shady spots amongst the driftwood, rocks, and dense plantings. You can keep Bandit Corydoras with most fish available in the hobby, including Dwarf Cichlids, Tetras, small to medium-sized Barbs, Gouramis and other peaceful Catfish. These Corys may prey on some more petite Dwarf Shrimp but are safe with larger shrimp and other ornamental invertebrates. However, it would be best if you refrained from keeping these fish with larger, more aggressive fish as they will feel intimidated and get outcompeted for food. Bandit Corydoras have a light brownish beige colour, and on the posterior portion of their bodies, they have an oblique dark bar that extends from the dorsal fin edge to the caudal fin base but does not extend onto the fin or split in two. Their dorsal fins are transparent, with slightly more than half of them tinted black, while their caudal fins have white and brown bands. Their dorsal fins are transparent, with slightly more than half of them tinted black, while their caudal fins have white and brown bands. A black eye band covers both eyes, stretching across the top of the head.Bandit Corydoras Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
It is somewhat straightforward to differentiate between the male and female Bandit Corydoras. Adult males will be slimmer and a little shorter than females. In contrast, the females grow larger and are noticeably rounder and broader than males, especially when carrying eggs.Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Corydoras metae |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1914 |
| Other Names | Bandit Catfish, Masked Corydoras, Meta River Corydoras |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Siluriformes |
| Family | Callichthyidae |
| Genus | Corydoras |
| Origins | Colombia |
| Max Size | 5 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Layer |
| Lifespan | 5 - 8 years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| PH | 6.0 - 7.5 |
| GH | 5 - 15 |
| KH | |
| TDS | 90 - 215 |
| ℉ | 68 - 79 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 20 - 26 |
