Slate Corydoras - Corydoras concolor : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Slate Corydoras (Corydoras concolor) represents an excellent addition to a community aquarium, owing to its small size, peaceful disposition, and robustness. To enhance both the aesthetic appeal and the well-being of these sociable, schooling fish, it is advised to maintain them in groups consisting of no fewer than six individuals, preferably more. Given the susceptibility of Slate Corydoras to barbel infections, it is imperative to house them on a substrate of sand rather than gravel, as this mitigates the accumulation of waste that can remain unseen.
To ensure the continued health of Concolor Corydoras, regular maintenance practices should be implemented, including frequent partial water changes. It is recommended to create a densely planted environment within the aquarium and incorporate shaded retreats using bogwood. Concolor Corydoras can coexist harmoniously with a wide range of fish commonly found in the hobby, such as Dwarf Cichlids, Tetras, small to medium-sized Barbs, Gouramis, and other peaceable Catfish species. While these Corydoras may exhibit predatory behaviour towards smaller Dwarf Shrimp, they pose no threat to larger shrimp and other ornamental invertebrates. However, it is advisable to refrain from housing Concolor Corydoras with larger, more aggressive fish, as this can lead to intimidation and competition for food.
In terms of physical appearance, Concolor Corydoras boast a greyish-brown body colouration, with subtle hints of green or blue hues when in optimal condition. All fins display an ochre-to-orange pigmentation without any distinct markings, while a distinct black band traverses through their eyes.
Slate Corydoras Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Slate Corydoras can be relatively straightforward. Adult males display a notable characteristic in the form of an elongated dorsal fin, and they generally exhibit a slightly shorter body length compared to females. Conversely, adult females tend to grow larger in size and possess a visible rounder and broader physique, particularly when they are carrying eggs.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Corydoras concolor |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1961 |
| Other Names | Concolor Corydoras |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Siluriformes |
| Family | Callichthyidae |
| Genus | Corydoras |
| Origins | Peru |
| Max Size | 6 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.5 - 7.5 |
| GH | 5 - 15 |
| TDS | 18 - 143 |
| ℉ | 73 - 79 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 23 - 26 |
Natural Habitat
The Slate Corydoras is native to the softwater streams found in Las Mangas, a tributary of the Río Parguaza in the western region of the State of Bolivar, located in Venezuela, South America.
Breeding
For successful breeding of Slate Corydoras it is recommended to set up a separate breeding tank with a ratio of two or more males per female. Once the females exhibit a noticeable fullness of eggs, a significant water change of 50 to 70 per cent should be performed using cooler water, accompanied by increased oxygenation and flow within the tank. This process should be repeated daily until the fish spawn.
Concolor Corydoras typically deposit their eggs on the tank glass, among fine-leaved plants, or within submerged spawning mops. Once the spawning process is complete, it is advised to remove either the adult fish or the eggs. If the decision is made to move the eggs, the rearing tank should have the same water parameters as the spawning tank and be adequately oxygenated. Some breeders may opt to add a few drops of methylene blue or introduce alder cones into the rearing tank to prevent fungus development on the eggs.
The incubation period for Concolor Corydoras eggs usually ranges from 2 to 4 days. Once the fry has consumed their yolk sacs, it is appropriate to introduce small live foods such as microworms and baby brine shrimp for their nourishment. It is important to note that raising Corydoras fry can be challenging and requires meticulous attention to water quality. However, it has been observed that maintaining them over a thin layer of sand, as opposed to a bare tank, seems to make them less susceptible to diseases.
Diet & Feeding
The Slate Corydoras readily accepts a wide range of high-quality dried foods, including granules, flakes, and sinking pellets. These modern food formulations have been specifically developed to meet nutritional requirements and promote the overall health of your fish. They provide a well-rounded diet that fulfils the essential dietary needs of the species.
Supplementing the diet with additional food sources such as live, frozen, or freeze-dried options like bloodworms, daphnia, and tubifex can offer added benefits to the health and well-being of your fish. However, it is important to note that these supplementary foodstuffs are not obligatory for this particular species. It is worth mentioning that bloodworms should be given sparingly as an occasional treat rather than constituting the staple diet, as they can pose difficulties for fish digestion and potentially lead to blockages.
In their natural habitat, Concolor Corydoras display an omnivorous diet that includes some vegetable matter. While modern fish foods typically incorporate these plant-based components, you may choose to supplement your fish's diet with blanched vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, and zucchini. It is crucial to avoid overfeeding and promptly remove any uneaten food the following day to maintain optimal water quality and prevent potential issues associated with overfeeding.
Other Corydoras
63 More Corydoras Profiles
View All