Leopardus Corydoras - Wild Caught 4cm

Leopardus Corydoras

 

The Leopardus corydoras are another newly imported wild caught Cory which is perfect for the collectors or aquarists looking to keep something ew and unique. These fish look quite similar to Julii or Similis corydoras but offer their own uniqueness through face shape and overall patterning. They will be a great species to breed to ensure they remain in the Australian aquarium hobby.

Leopardus corydora mostly have a black and white colour which is part of the reason they are so appealing. The stark contrast between the light and dark colours really makes these fish stand out in the aquarium whereas most Corydoras species tend to just be dark. The body colour of the Leopardus corydora is generally a silver to white shade which is overlaid with a scribbled patterning of jet black. The way this black scribbling and spotting is on the body gives it a loose leopard like appearance hence their common name Leopardus corydora. Above all this, they also have patches of gold near the head and belly area for some additional shimmer. Where these fish differ from their similar looking counterparts is the more elongated face which is a lot more pointed than round. Just like any other corydoras species, the Leopardus cories will constantly stir the substrate layer in order to look for food. This behaviour ensures they are 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 a bottom dwelling fish and are an awesome option to add some life to the bottom of the tank.

 

The Leopardus cories are also considered to be a schooling catfish and it would be best to keep them in a group of at least 5-6 although more than this will never hurt. Differentiating males and females is possible where the males are often smaller and narrower compared to the larger bodied females. The best method to identify is to get a school 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 Leopardus corydora is South America.

 

Tank Recommendations for you Leopardus Corydoras

As leopardus cories reach around 4.5 cm as adults it is best to keep them in an aquarium with a minimum size of around 70 litres. A larger aquarium will always be better since a larger school can be kept along with the space for other tank mates. A sand substrate is best as coarser substrates like gravel often result in corydoras damaging their barbels. They will also love plants in the aquarium and places for cover through the addition of driftwood. As these are a tropical fish, it is best to maintain the temperature at around 24-26 degrees.

 

Suitable Tank Buddies

Leopardus corydora are an incredibly peaceful fish which can be kept with an absolutely massive range of community aquarium. They do not display any aggression even when breeding and make for a perfect addition even with sensitive or shy fish. The obvious consideration would be to just avoid keeping anything which might harm this fish.

 

Usually Compatible

Angelfish, cardinal tetras, rams, discus and similar peaceful South American species.

 

Sometimes Compatible

Mystus catfish, geophagus, veja cichlids and other peaceful but potentially territorial species.

 

Rarely Compatible

Large and aggressive species such as oscars which 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 corydora and the predator fish's death.

 

Feeding your Leopardus 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 even live foods like baby brine shrimp.