(Corydoras aeneus)
Bronze Cory Cats are schooling fish, and need at least 4 in a group to be happy. They are very peaceful bottom-dwellers that need at least 30 gallons. They need to have room for swimming and lots of hiding spots. They get along great with other fish in any level of the tank, as long as they get enough food.
Bronzies come from South America; they're native to the Amazon River in Brazil and Peru. Their habitat consists of lots of driftwood and plants. The water is stained yellow with tannins and has a slow current.
The only way of sexing these fish is by comparing a group; the females will be slightly larger with more extended pelvic fins. They need perfect water with a slightly acidic pH. Doing a water change with clean water of a lower temperature will help induce spawning. The eggs are adhesive and are often attached by the female to the glass wall, filer intake, or broad plant leaves.
Bronze Corys are adaptable to many parameters. They thrive in soft, slightly acidic water with a pH between 6 to 7 and dH between 6 to 18. They can tolerate any pH from 5.5-8 and dH between 4-20. An ideal temperature for them in the aquarium is around 68-82F (20-28C). For breeding purposes, the pH is best just around 6.5.
Bronzies grow up to 4 inches. They accept any food, but need to be able to eat before their tankmates have eaten it all. Since they are bottom-feeders, sinking omnivore pellets should be a staple.
They are somewhat attractive; an iridescent green and grey body with a white and pinkish belly. Their fins are short and clear. Many people keep them because they are great scavengers and pick up any uneaten food.
Pros:
-they eat leftovers
-they're socially active
-they're easy to feed
-they're socially active
-they're easy to feed
Cons:
-they don't have super flashy colors
-they are timid if they aren't in a large group
-they hide a lot
-they are timid if they aren't in a large group
-they hide a lot
