Araguaia Corydoras - Corydoras araguaiaensis : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Araguaia Corydoras (Corydoras araguaiaensis) is a petite, visually appealing, and sociable species that thrives when kept in groups of at least six individuals. Exhibiting schooling behaviour, these Corydoras prefer to occupy the lower to middle regions of the water column. With a peaceful and non-aggressive temperament, they can coexist harmoniously with other small, peaceful species within the aquarium.
Well-suited tankmates for the Araguaia Corydoras include small to medium-sized Characins, Cyprinids, Dwarf Gouramis, Dwarf Cichlids, and other peaceful Catfish. However, it is important to avoid housing them with aggressive or significantly larger species. An ideal aquarium setup for these Corydoras entails a well-planted environment with driftwood providing hiding spots and a sandy substrate.
To ensure optimal conditions, a reliable filtration system and moderate water flow are essential. The Araguaia Corydoras exhibits a compact physique, typically attaining a maximum length of 6 centimetres. Their bodies are characterized by a rounded and slightly flattened shape, featuring a pointed snout and short barbels extending from their mouth. Sporting a silvery beige base colouration, their bodies and fins are adorned with varying-sized black spots, while their fins remain transparent in appearance.
Araguaia Corydoras Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Araguaia Corydoras is a straightforward process. When viewed from above, notable distinctions become apparent. The female exhibits a body that is widest in the centre, and her pectoral fin displays a rounded shape. Moreover, the female tends to appear plumper, particularly when well-fed or in breeding conditions.
In contrast, the male Araguaia Corydoras generally possesses a smaller size and exhibits longer pectoral fins compared to the females. Additionally, the male's pelvic fins are more pointed in shape. These characteristics collectively contribute to the visual differentiation between the sexes of this species.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Corydoras araguaiaensis |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1990 |
| Other Names | Araguaia Catfish, Araguaia Cory |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Siluriformes |
| Family | Callichthyidae |
| Genus | Corydoras |
| Origins | Brazil |
| Max Size | 6 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom - Middle |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Oviparous |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 8.0 |
| GH | 2 - 25 |
| ℉ | 71 - 79 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 21 - 26 |
Natural Habitat
Araguaia Corydoras are indigenous to the Araguaia River Basin in Brazil, South America. These Corydoras predominantly inhabit clear and shallow water environments, including small tributaries, flooded fields, and flooded forests within this specific geographical region. Their distribution is limited to this particular area, and there is no known occurrence of this species outside of its native range. These habitats are characterized by sandy or muddy substrates and abundant vegetation cover, contributing to the natural surroundings in which these fish thrive.
Breeding
Like its counterparts within the Corydoras genus, the Araguaia Corydoras is an oviparous species capable of successfully breeding in captivity. This fish presents a relatively uncomplicated breeding process, typically engaging in spawning behaviour on a flat surface within the aquarium. Females will lay clutches of eggs, subsequently fertilized by the male. The incubation period of the eggs spans approximately four days, after which the fry will emerge as free-swimming organisms within another four days.
To ensure the nourishment and growth of the fry, a suitable diet should be provided. This can include newly hatched brine shrimp, finely crushed flake food, and other small, high-quality food options. Offering a varied and nutritious diet will contribute to the healthy development of the fry.
Diet & Feeding
In the home aquarium, Araguaia Corydoras readily accept a wide range of high-quality dried foods, including granules, flakes, and sinking pellets. These modern food formulations have been specifically designed to provide comprehensive nutrition, catering to the health and dietary requirements of the fish.
Supplementing their diet with occasional servings of live, frozen, or freeze-dried meals, such as mini bloodworm, daphnia, and tubifex, once or twice a week, can offer additional benefits to the overall health and well-being of the fish, although it is not obligatory for this particular species.
Naturally, Araguaia Corydoras display omnivorous feeding behaviour, including the consumption of some vegetable matter. While most contemporary fish foods incorporate plant-based ingredients to accommodate this aspect, you can still supplement your fish's diet with blanched vegetables, such as spinach, broccoli, and zucchini, to provide additional variety and nutritional benefits.
It is crucial to avoid overfeeding, as excessive food can lead to water quality issues. Any uneaten food should be promptly removed the following day to maintain optimal aquarium conditions.
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