Sterbas Corydoras Sterbai Sterbae 4cm Catfish

Overview

Sterba's Cory is a plump, armoured catfish with a dark body spangled in white spots that merge into stripes along the flanks, set off by bright orange pectoral fins. It comes from the Rio Guaporé system on the Bolivia and Brazil border. Peaceful and sociable, it suits any warm community tank with a sandy floor and a group of its own kind.

• Adult Size: Around 6.5 cm (2.6 in); females larger
• Lifespan: 8–10 years

Origin

• Native to: Bolivia and Brazil, upper Rio Guaporé
• Habitat: Small creeks, pools and flooded forest over sand

Feeding

• Diet: Omnivorous bottom feeder
• Preferred Foods: Sinking pellets, catfish tablets, bloodworm, daphnia, brine shrimp
• Feeding Habits: Feed once or twice daily after lights out; do not rely on leftovers

Tank Mates

• Best with: Tetras, rasboras, dwarf cichlids, gouramis, discus, other corydoras
• Avoid: Large or aggressive fish, fin nippers, anything that eats small catfish

Aggression & Behaviour

• Temperament: Very peaceful
• Territoriality: None; happiest shoaling in groups of six or more

Experience Level

• Difficulty: Beginner
• Challenges: Barbels erode on sharp gravel; sensitive to salt and medications

Water Parameters

• Water Type: Freshwater, soft and slightly acidic to neutral
• Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
• pH: 6.0–7.6
• Hardness: 1–15 dGH
• Flow: Slow to moderate
• Tank Size: Minimum 60 litres for a group of six; larger is better

Final Notes

Unusually heat tolerant for a cory, it is the ideal bottom dweller for discus and other warm-water tanks. Use fine sand so the barbels stay intact, and keep it in a group of at least six. Females are noticeably rounder than males, and it is one of the easiest corydoras to breed, scattering eggs on glass and leaves after a cool water change. Beware the sharp pectoral spines when netting. A hardy, characterful favourite.