Pulcher Corydoras (Corydoras pulcher)

The Pulcher Corydoras are a little larger than most Corydoras; they are absolutely stunning with excellent patterning, have great personalities, and are very peaceful, making them suitable for many community aquariums.

It would be better if you maintained Pulcher Corydoras in groups of at least eight individuals as they will be much more active and confident with their kind as they are shoaling species in nature.

Ideal tankmates for these Corys could include small to medium Characins and Cyprinids as well as Gouramis, Dwarf Cichlids and other peaceful Catfish. However, it would be best if you didn't house them with anything aggressive or huge.

If you intend to breed these Corys, keep them in a species-only aquarium to avoid any of their eggs being consumed by other greedy fish.

Pulcher Corydoras will thrive in an aquarium that mimics their natural environment. To achieve this, you could use a sandy substrate and add some driftwood; standard beech is also ok to use as long as you thoroughly dry it and strip it of its bark. Having dim lighting will also benefit your fish.

Adding some dried leaves to stain the water would complete the natural feel; however, make sure you replace them every few weeks so they do not rot and pollute the water. Adding some aquarium-safe peat to the filter can aid in simulating black water conditions. Although you will not find aquatic plants in this Cory's natural waters, they also enjoy a well-planted aquarium.

Pulcher Corydoras are sensitive to deteriorating water conditions; therefore, a good maintenance schedule is essential. Like all Corys, this species may lose their barbels if you keep them in poor water, so make sure you keep the substrate clean and perform regular significant water changes.

Pulcher Corydoras have silvery bodies with one prominent dark line on either side of the point of the two rows of lateral body plates. These Corys also have several other broken lines throughout their body and fins. In addition, their caudal and dorsal fin has transverse dark spots, and their first dorsal fin ray is sharp, large and creamy-white.

Photos

Feeding

In the home aquarium, the Pulcher Corydoras will readily accept most good quality dried foods such as granules, flakes and sinking pellets. These modern food products have been developed to provide all adequate nutrition to maintain your fish's health and dietary requirements.

Providing additional foodstuffs such as live, frozen, and freeze-dried meals such as bloodworm, daphnia, and tubifex once or twice a week will provide additional benefits to your fish's health and well-being but is not a must for this fish.

It should be noted that bloodworms should only be given as an occasional treat and should not be used as the staple diet as they are difficult for fish to digest and can potentially cause blockages.

This fish is an omnivore in the wild, meaning it will consume some vegetable matter. Although most modern fish foods take this into account and include them in their products, you can still supplement your fish's diet with blanched vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, and zucchini. Ensure you do not overfeed your fish and remove any leftovers the following day.

Sexual Dimorphism

It can be quite challenging to differentiate between a male and female Pulcher Corydoras. However, females are usually a little longer than males when fully mature and have wider bodies, especially when they are carrying eggs.