Scleromystax macropterus
Scleromystax macropterus in natural conditions can be found in small rivers located in the states of Sao Paulo, Paraná and Santa Catarina, in the south of Brazil, as well as in some tributaries of the Paraná River basin in Paraguay.
The body of Scleromystax macropterus instead of scales is covered with rows of hard plates with dark speckles that form a peculiar pattern. The pattern on the body of males is more contrasting, and their pectoral and dorsal fins are much longer than those of females. The maximum size of the fish is 8-9 cm.
Males are territorial and aggressive towards each other, so a small aquarium should not contain more than one male. In relation to other fish Corydoras Macropterus behave peacefully. The volume of the aquarium should be at least 200 liters. Recommended to contain a group of fish, consisting of 1 male and 3-5 females. Perhaps the content of fish in a common aquarium with other peace-loving fish living in cool water.
Water parameters: temperature 14-20° C, hardness dH 1-10°, pH 5,0-7,0. Water filtration and aeration is required, while the movement of water in the aquarium should be minimal. Also requires a weekly change of 1/3 of the aquarium water with fresh water.
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As a soil, it is desirable to use sand or fine ground gravel. On the bottom you need to place a few shelters in the form of stones or grottoes, where the fish can hide.
Corydoras Macropterus is an omnivorous fish. He eats equally well as dry, as well as live and frozen food (chironomid, artemia). Feed the fish 1-2 times a day.
Reproduction
Breeding Scleromystax macropterus is similar to other fish of this family.
Spawning stimulated daily substitution of at least ½ of the aquarium water cooler, fresher. The female lays eggs on the wall of the aquarium, on rocks or plant leaves. Once spawning is over, the producers or eggs, which is harder to do, are moved to another aquarium. Most aquarists add a few drops of methylene blue to the egg tank to prevent fungal growth.
The eggs are incubated for 3-4 days. Just hatched larvae the first 2-3 days to feed on their yolk sacs, after which they can feed live dust, and after 10-15 days artemiya.
Life expectancy of Scleromystax macropterus in aquarium conditions is about 8 years.
