Sterbai Corydoras (Corydoras sterbai) – The Spotted Star of the Substrate

If you’re looking for a peaceful bottom-dweller with personality, resilience, and striking good looks, the Sterbai Corydoras is a standout choice. With its bold white spots on a dark body, golden-orange pectoral fins, and active schooling behavior, this species is a favorite among community tank keepers and planted tank enthusiasts alike.

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⭐ Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Corydoras sterbai

• Common Name: Sterbai Cory, Sterba’s Cory

• Origin: South America (Brazil, Bolivia – upper Guaporé River)

• Size: 2.5–3 inches (6–7.5 cm)

• Lifespan: 5–10 years

• Temperament: Peaceful, social

• Tank Level: Bottom-dweller

• Minimum Group Size: 4–6 individuals (schooling species)

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? Appearance

The Sterbai Cory is instantly recognizable:

• Dark brown or black body covered in white to light tan spots

• Golden to orange pectoral fins, especially vibrant in healthy specimens

• Short, compact, armored body with downturned mouth and barbels for foraging

• Gentle, endearing “waddling” swim motion

This striking pattern makes Sterbais stand out, even in lush, heavily planted tanks.

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? Tank Requirements

Sterbai Corys are highly adaptable but thrive best in well-oxygenated, clean tanks with soft substrate.

Tank Setup:

• Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum (more for larger groups)

• Substrate: Sand or smooth fine gravel – protects their sensitive barbels

• Decor: Driftwood, rocks, live plants, caves

• Filtration: Moderate to strong, with good oxygenation (they enjoy flow and often surface-breathe)

• Lighting: Moderate to low (they appreciate shaded areas)

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? Water Parameters

• Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (up to 15 dGH)

• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm – very sensitive to poor water quality

• Water changes: 25–30% weekly recommended

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?️ Diet & Feeding

Sterbai Corydoras are omnivorous scavengers, but they still need a nutritious, intentional diet.

Feeding Tips:

• Sinking pellets or wafers (specifically for bottom feeders)

• Frozen or live foods: Bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia

• Blanched vegetables: Zucchini, spinach, cucumber

• Occasional flake food (if it sinks)

Feed once or twice daily, ensuring food reaches the tank bottom.

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? Tankmates

Sterbai Corys are incredibly peaceful and do well in community aquariums.

Ideal Tankmates:

• Tetras (e.g., Ember, Neon, Rummy-nose)

• Rasboras

• Gouramis

• Dwarf Cichlids (e.g., Apistogramma, Rams)

• Other Corydoras species

• Livebearers like guppies and mollies

• Shrimp and snails (peaceful species)

Avoid aggressive or large predatory fish, and always keep them in groups of 4–6+ for natural behavior.

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? Breeding Sterbai Corydoras

Sterbai Corys are relatively easy to breed in captivity.

Breeding Setup:

• Use a separate breeding tank (20+ gallons)

• Condition with high-protein foods

• Perform large, cooler water changes to mimic rainy season and trigger spawning

• Males chase females in a classic “T-position” before egg-laying

• Eggs are laid on tank glass or plants and should be separated from adults (they may eat them)

• Fry hatch in 3–5 days and can be fed infusoria or powdered fry food, then baby brine shrimp

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? Buying Tips

Look for Sterbais that are:

• Active and social (they should be schooling, not hiding alone)

• Clear-eyed, with smooth fins and no bloating

• Bright orange pectoral fins and distinct spotting pattern

• From reputable stores or breeders to ensure health and proper acclimatization

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✅ Care Summary

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? Final Thoughts

The Sterbai Corydoras is more than just a cleanup crew member—it’s an active, social, and visually stunning species that brings both beauty and life to the lower levels of your tank. Whether in a biotope setup or a colorful community aquarium, these peaceful catfish are sure to become a favorite.