Orange Venezuela Corydoras 2.5cm

Orange Venezuela Corydoras

The Orange Venezuela Corydoras is quite a popular species amongst corydoras enthusiasts. They are often a great stepping point from the common and peppered Corydoras for aquarists who are looking to explore the multitude of corydoras species. The unique rusty orange colour, the small size of 6cm, and substrate sifting benefits make them a great alternative to the more common corydoras colours along with only having a slightly higher expense.

The Orange Venezuela Corydoras as their name suggests are mostly covered in an earthy orange colour that is best compared to rust. This orange colour gets better as these fish mature and shimmers in the aquarium thanks to the iridescent green tinge that runs from head to tail. To break up the orange this corydoras has patches of blown near the head and midsection of the body along with a white underbelly. 

Just like any other corydoras species the orange Venezuelas constantly stir the substrate layer to look for food. This behavior ensures they are constantly keeping the substrate turned over and 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 orange Venezuela corydoras are not a shy fish either and are constantly active, making them a great and popular fish for community and planted aquariums. These fish are also considered to be 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. 

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 orange Venezuela corydoras is South America.

Tank Recommendations for your Orange Venezuela Cory

As orange Venezuela cory reach around 6 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 active 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 orange Venezuela cory would look best against a lighter, more natural substrate to highlight the orange on this fish. They will also love plants in the aquarium and places for cover through the addition of driftwood. 

Suitable Tank Buddies

Orange Venezuela corydoras is an 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 mostly 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 Orange Venezuela Cory

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.