Corydoras Araguaiaensis

🐾 Corydoras araguaiaensis — Araguaia Cory Care Guide

Corydoras araguaiaensis is a small, peaceful, and relatively rare species of Corydoras catfish native to the Araguaia River basin in central Brazil. It features a clean, elegant appearance and is best known for its calm behavior and compatibility with community tanks. Like most Corydoras, this species thrives in groups and is well-suited to planted or blackwater aquariums with soft, sandy substrates.

🐟 Species Overview

• Scientific Name: Corydoras araguaiaensis

• Common Name: Araguaia Cory

• Origin: Araguaia River, Brazil

• Adult Size: 1.5–2 inches (4–5 cm)

• Lifespan: 5–8 years with good care

• Temperament: Very peaceful and social

• Activity Level: Active during the day, bottom-dwelling forager

• Group Behavior: Schooling; thrives in groups of 6 or more

🏡 Aquarium Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons for a small group

• Substrate: Soft sand is ideal; avoid rough gravel that can damage their barbels

• Décor:

  • Provide hiding spots with driftwood, plants, or rocks

  • Open swimming space is also important

• Lighting: Low to moderate

• Water Movement: Gentle flow preferred

• Filtration: Reliable biological filtration is essential; sponge filters are also a good option

💡 Use leaf litter or floating plants to create a dappled light environment similar to their native habitat.

💧 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 72–79°F (22–26°C)

• pH Range: 6.0–7.4

• Hardness: 2–12 dGH (soft to moderately hard)

• TDS: 80–200 ppm

• Water Changes: 25–40% weekly to maintain optimal health

📌 Corydoras are sensitive to ammonia and nitrite. Keep nitrates as low as possible through regular maintenance.

🍽️ Diet & Feeding

Corydoras araguaiaensis are omnivores and natural scavengers, but they should never be relied on solely as tank cleaners. Provide a diverse diet to ensure health and proper nutrition.

• Staple Diet:

  • Sinking micro-pellets

  • Quality bottom feeder wafers

• Protein Foods:

  • Frozen or live bloodworms, daphnia, and blackworms

• Vegetable Options:

  • Blanched spinach or peas (occasional)

• Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times per day, only what they consume in a few minutes

🛑 Always ensure food reaches the substrate, as they are bottom feeders.

🤝 Compatibility & Tankmates

This species is perfectly suited for peaceful community aquariums.

• Compatible Tankmates:

  • Small tetras, rasboras, danios, livebearers, and other Corydoras

  • Dwarf cichlids (Apistogramma), pencilfish, and peaceful loaches

• Avoid:

  • Aggressive or large predatory fish

  • Fast, boisterous swimmers that outcompete them for food

💡 They’re happiest and most confident when kept in groups—ideally 6 or more of the same species.

🐣 Breeding Notes

Breeding Corydoras araguaiaensis in captivity is possible with the right setup and patience.

• Spawning Behavior: Egg scatterer; lays eggs on glass, plants, or decor

• Spawning Triggers:

  • Large, cooler water changes

  • Heavy feeding with protein-rich foods

• Breeding Tank Setup: Bare bottom or fine sand, sponge filter, low light

• Egg Care: Adults may eat eggs — move eggs to a separate tank if necessary

• Fry Care: Feed infusoria, microworms, or powdered fry food until they can take crushed flakes

📌 Good water quality and stable temperatures are essential for fry development.

📝 Quick Reference Summary

🔧 Tips for Success

• Use a soft, sandy substrate to protect their delicate mouths and barbels

• Keep them in odd-numbered groups (at least 5–6) for more natural social interaction

• Avoid medications with copper or formalin — sensitive to harsh chemicals

• Monitor closely for stress in small or overly active tanks