Cory = helmet, doras = skin. In this case it was incorrectly used to mean armour (cuirasse) instead of skin in allusion to the dual rows of plates that run along the flanks of this genus. Named for Dr Han Nijssen.
Corydoras are identified by their twin rows of armour plates along the flanks and by having fewer than 10 dorsal fin rays. They are most commonly confused with the other genera in the sub-family, namely Brochis, Scleromystax and Aspidoras. Like all the other Rio Negro Corys, the black dorsal stripe can vary in size and intensity. Reminds one somewhat of C. elegans in terms of body shape.
Males are markedly smaller in total length and in body mass. Males also generally have more intense colours with a darker saddle marking. Females can often show smaller fins than males.
Will accept most brands of flake and pelleted food of a suitable size, preferably fast sinking. They also relish finely chopped earthworm, whiteworms, grindal and micro worms. Most frozen foods are eagerly accepted.
Best attempted in a 5 gallon (imperial) aquarium with bare bottom and a half clay flower pot. Maintain at 24°C. Feed the fish well for a few days on live food and then perform an 80% water change with water at 18°C while also adding vigorous water movement by airstone.
Spawns in typical Corydoras fashion and seems best with one female to two males but a single pair has no problems breeding. Eggs are laid in small clumps of ten or more on the sides of the aquarium, sometimes on the pot and other furniture if used.
Fry hatch in 3 - 4 days and are feeding on live brine shrimp and microworms by day 6 - 7 depending on temperature. The young will attain 2 - 3cm long in 8 - 10 weeks.
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