Pantanalensis Corydoras - Corydoras pantanalensis Fish Profile & Care Guide

Breeding

Breeding Pantanalensis Corydoras can present certain challenges; however, the process closely resembles that of other Corydoras species. It is recommended to establish a dedicated breeding tank equipped with either a bare bottom or a substrate of sand or fine gravel. Additionally, an air-powered sponge filter and clumps of java moss should be incorporated. To promote successful breeding, maintaining an optimal temperature of approximately 75 degrees Fahrenheit and a pH level around 6.5 is advisable. The use of reverse osmosis (RO) water and filtering it through peat can be beneficial as well.

Achieving a higher ratio of males to females is preferable when breeding Corys, with an ideal proportion of two males per female. Properly conditioning the group through a varied diet comprising dried, live, and frozen foods is instrumental in stimulating spawning behavior. Once the females exhibit signs of being full of eggs, a significant water change with cooler water and enhanced flow and oxygenation in the tank should be carried out, repeating this process daily until spawning occurs.

As the fish become ready to spawn, heightened activity, characterized by male pursuit of the females, may be observed. The females will signal their readiness by allowing the males to touch them with their barbels, assuming the classic T-position. The female will then create a basket with her pelvic fins to hold and deposit 1 to 4 eggs. After fertilization, she will swim away to find a suitable location, typically the tank's glass near an area with swift water movement, to deposit the eggs. This cycle repeats until all eggs have been laid.

Upon completion of spawning, it is crucial to remove either the adults or the eggs promptly to prevent consumption. If the decision is made to relocate the eggs, it should be noted that they possess considerable strength and can be easily rolled up the glass using a finger. The new tank should be well-oxygenated and maintain the same water parameters as the breeding tank. The addition of a few drops of methylene blue to the water can help prevent fungal growth on the eggs; however, any eggs exhibiting signs of fungus should be promptly removed to prevent its spread.

Typically, the eggs will hatch between 3 and 5 days later, and the fry will initially rely on their yolk sacs for sustenance. Once the yolk sacs are consumed, providing the fry with microworms and baby brine shrimp becomes necessary. It is worth noting that maintaining the fry in a tank with a thin layer of sand, rather than a bare bottom, may contribute to their improved resistance against diseases.

Diet & Feeding

Within the confines of a domestic aquarium, Pantanalensis Corydoras readily exhibit acceptance towards a variety of high-quality dried food options, including granules, flakes, and sinking pellets. These contemporary food formulations have been meticulously designed to fulfill the nutritional requirements necessary for the maintenance of optimal fish health. While these dried foods alone suffice to meet their dietary needs, the occasional supplementation with live, frozen, or freeze-dried sustenance such as mini bloodworms, daphnia, or tubifex once or twice a week can bestow additional advantages to the overall well-being of the fish.

As an omnivorous species in its natural habitat, Pantanalensis Corydoras also consumes a proportion of vegetable matter. Although many modern fish food products adequately incorporate these components, it remains possible to enhance the fish's diet through the provision of blanched vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, and zucchini. It is essential to exercise caution against overfeeding and to promptly remove any uneaten portions the following day, ensuring a balanced and controlled feeding regimen.