Corydoras geoffroy

Details -

Natural Range: Suriname and French Guyana

Source: Tank Bred and raised

Estimated Size at Shipping: 1.75"

Max Size: 2.75"

Sold unsexed

Lineage 1 "Corydoras":

Corydoras come from 9 distinct lineages which are likely to be split into 9 genera once the taxonomists review the species.

Overview: Corydoras geoffroy was the first Cory to be scientifically described (back in 1803) and has the honor of being the type species of the entire Corydoras genus. However, for being a type species, it is rather odd in that it is the only member of the genus to have cheek bristles (similar to Scleromystax), and one of only a few to have a third barbel on the corner of its mouth. Also, for being the type species, it is exceedingly rare. For many decades it was considered a "ghost," but has recently been found again and a few Corydoras enthusiasts are succeeding at breeding, raising, and distributing this fish.

This species is from Lineage 1. Almost all Corydoras are perfect citizens in a peaceful community aquarium. However, unlike most Cory species, males of some of the Lineage 1 species can be quite aggressive amongst themselves in a way reminiscent of the Scleromystax species.

Something interesting about these catfish is how they supplement their oxygen intake by breathing atmospheric air. They do this by darting up to the surface, taking a gulp of air, and darting back down to the substrate. This is perfectly normal behavior which adds to the charm of their clownish behavior.

Setup Considerations: Corydoras can be found on a wide range of substrates in the wild ranging from mud to sand to rock. However, all the species we have kept have greatly appreciated a substrate of fine sand which they constantly sift through for food, often burying their faces up to their eyeballs as they push into the sand. Fine sand is not strictly necessary and they will do just fine on a wide variety of substrates, or even on the glass bottom of an aquarium, but, if you can provide sand, you will see a lot of really enjoyable behavior as they root around for food.

Specific Care Requirements: Unlike most Corys, which are completely peaceful, males of this species can be aggressive with each other, so an aquarium with adequate space and distinct territories is necessary when keeping multiple males together.

Diet: Omnivore. Corydoras need protein rich foods in order to thrive. Unfortunately, they are often sold as "cleaner" fish with the expectation that they will get enough nutrition by sucking algae and other gunk from the substrate. While they do need some plant matter in their diet, they are not effective algae eaters. In fact, for optimal health, it is recommended that they be target fed a variety of sinking pellets and wafers, as well as the occasional offering of frozen and live foods. They can eat quite a lot, but are somewhat slow feeders. We have found that regularly feeding long-lasting foods such as large pellets, wafers, and Repashy and letting the Corys graze on these foods for a few hours at a time helps keep them fat and sassy.

Location: Wyoming, United States

Shipping: Please review checkout for final shipping options based on items selected, quantity, and groupings. Heat or cold packs will be included as needed at no extra cost.

• UPS Next Day Giant: Fits 30 for $69.99
• UPS Next Day Large: Fits 20 for $49.99
• UPS Next Day Medium: Fits 9 for $45.99
• UPS Next Day Small: Fits 5 for $39.99

Find details about our shipping process in our FAQ. For example, we ship most orders on the following Monday or Wednesday.