Bethanae Corydoras 4cm

Corydoras Bethanae

The Corydoras Bethanae is a true collector's species amongst corydoras collectors. A rare species of the beloved corydoras family that was only scientifically catalogued in 2021, this is truly hard to acquire fish in Australia. These fish are often confused with the more commonly found sunk corydoras and in the wild, both species are often found coexisting in schools. The key difference between these two species is the maximum size that the bethanae corydoras grows too. Reaching almost 10 cm this is truly a large corydoras and would like phenomenal in a South American biotope style aquarium.

Bethanae corydoras also seem to have accentuated features compared to other corydoras species, along with their larger size these fish have more elongated faces and deeper bodies. Sporting a creamy white body colour and a slightly brown nape, these fish are already different from the often-darker coloured corydoras species. The bethanae corydoras also have a jet-black curved line that goes from cheek to tail. They also have a slight blue iridescence to them that is truly eye-catching under aquarium lighting but would look stunning under natural sunlight as well. 

Just like any other corydoras species, the corydoras bethanae constantly stir the substrate layer too to look for food. Their larger size makes them a great addition to tanks with a deep substrate layer as they can keep any debris in the water column which can then be picked up by the aquarium filter. They are almost exclusively bottom-dwelling fish and are an awesome option to add some life to the bottom of the tank. The corydoras bethanae is not a shy fish either and is constantly active, making them a great and popular fish for community and planted aquariums. These fish are also considered to be a schooling catfish, in the wild they are often seen in groups of a few hundred however in the home aquarium it is recommended to keep at least 3 or more. An ideal school would be around 6 plus individuals to make them feel comfortable and to add some activity to the tank. 

Due to their inherent rarity in the aquarium hobby, there is a lack of exact breeding information however the process should be fairly easy as every other corydoras species has essentially been bred in captivity.  Differentiating males and females are possible where the males are often smaller and narrower compared to the larger-bodied females. The best method to identify is to get a pack of 4-6 Corydoras and let a pair naturally form. Females are often triggered to spawn after being fed high-quality food and a slight reduction in the temperature. The wild origin of the corydoras bethanae is South America.

Tank Recommendations for your Corydoras Bethanae 

As bethanae corydoras reach around 10 cm as adults it is best to keep them in an aquarium with a minimum size of around 60 liters. A larger aquarium will always be better due to their dynamic behavior and it also allows for the space to keep other tank mates. 

A sand substrate is best as coarser substrates like gravel often result in corydoras damaging their barbels. The corydoras bethanae would look best against a dark substrate as this will darken their black stripes and make the fish contrast in the aquarium as a whole. They will also love plants in the aquarium and places for cover through the addition of driftwood. 

Suitable Tank Buddies

Bethanae corydoras are incredibly peaceful fish that can be kept in a massive range of community aquariums. They do not display any aggression even when breeding and make for a perfect addition even with sensitive or shy fish. The only factor which should be considered is that Corydoras are almost exclusively a bottom-dwelling species which means that any super active or large top dwelling fish may outcompete the corydoras for food.  

Usually Compatible

community fish such as rams, tetras, angelfish, discus, rainbow fish, and many more.

Sometimes Compatible

Larger peaceful South American cichlids such as Uaru, Severums, and other fish may out-compete them as they are primarily bottom-dwelling fish. 

Rarely Compatible

Large and aggressive species such as the Oscars may prey on the Corydoras. This is especially important as Corydoras have spines on their pectoral fins like many catfish, this can result in both the corydoras and the predator fish’s death.

Feeding your Bethanae Corydoras 

Just like any other corydoras these fish are very easy to feed. They will take a wide range of pellets, flakes, and frozen foods. Just like any fish though they should be fed a varied diet with a mix of different foods. The ideal diet would be a good quality micro slow sinking pellet or crushed flake, supplemented with frozen bloodworms or black worms or even live foods like baby brine shrimp or micro worms.