Corydoras schultzei “black”
The Corydoras schultzei “black” or black Venezuela is naturally found in most parts of South America, from Colombia in the north to the source of the Rio de la Plata on the border of Argentina and Uruguay. It has long been known and popular among aquarists as a fish that is easy to raise and keep.
The fish gets its name from its colouring and its place of origin, which is in the Llanos region of Venezuela. They are peaceful fish that tirelessly collect food from the bottom and thus clean the aquarium. They lead a crepuscular lifestyle, swimming in groups among the thick vegetation.
Corydoras schultzei "black" has a black body colour with fins varying in colour from brown to purple. Females are larger than males and have a more rounded abdomen. The maximum size of the fish reaches 7.5 cm.
Keep Corydoras schultzei "black" is recommended in a group of at least 6-8 fish in an aquarium volume of 80 liters. They are peaceful, hardy and active fish, which is an excellent addition to any aquarium. The corydoras can be joined by, for instance, tetras or brasbores.
Use sand or fine sanded gravel as substrate. Several shelters in the form of stones, grottoes or snags should be placed in the corners of the aquarium. The perimeter of the aquarium should be densely planted aquarium plants.
Water parameters: temperature 18-28° C, hardness dH 5-20°, pH 6,0-7,0. Requires filtration, aeration and a weekly change of 1/3 of the aquarium water with fresh water.
The fish are omnivores. In an aquarium, they are fed with flake food and spirulina tablets, as well as live and frozen food. They feed only from the bottom. Feed the fish twice a day, giving them a portion that they can eat in about half an hour.
Reproduction
The Corydoras schultzei "black" can be bred in the home aquarium.
In the spawning tank should be placed fish in the ratio of 2 males to 1 female. Spawning is stimulated by daily changes of ½ part of the aquarium water with fresh and cooler water. Water changes are made until the females begin to spawn.
Once the eggs are fertilised by the male, they sink onto the plant leaves, decoration and the aquarium walls. In order to prevent fungal diseases, it is advisable to add some methylene blue to the water.
The eggs incubate for 3-4 days, after which the tiny larvae hatch out. During the first days of life, the fry are fed powdered dry food, and after 5-7 days begin to give artemium.
The life expectancy of Corydoras schultzei "black" is about 4-6 years.
