Corydoras Treitlii

🐠 Corydoras Treitlii — Care Guide

Corydoras treitlii is a small, peaceful bottom-dwelling catfish native to slow-moving tributaries in Brazil's Amazon basin. With its clean body pattern and shy, social nature, this Cory is ideal for planted community aquariums. Although not as common as some other Corydoras species, it offers all the charm of its cousins with a uniquely delicate appearance.

🐟 Species Overview

• Scientific Name: Corydoras treitlii

• Common Name: Treitli's Cory

• Origin: Lower Amazon Basin, Brazil

• Adult Size: 1.8–2.2 inches (4.5–5.5 cm)

• Lifespan: 5–8 years

• Temperament: Very peaceful and social

• Activity: Active bottom forager; diurnal

• Behavior: Schooling species; shy when kept alone

🏡 Aquarium Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons for a group of 6

• Substrate: Fine sand is preferred to protect barbels

• Decor:

  • Use driftwood, leaf litter, and rounded stones

  • Provide plant cover and shaded resting spots

• Lighting: Low to moderate lighting

• Water Movement: Gentle flow

• Filtration: Sponge or canister filters with soft current

💡 Corydoras feel most secure in environments with cover and dim lighting. Provide plenty of plant life or floating vegetation.

💧 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 72–79°F (22–26°C)

• pH Range: 6.0–7.2

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

• TDS: 80–200 ppm

• Water Changes: 25–40% weekly

📌 Stable water conditions and low nitrates are essential for healthy barbels and overall vitality.

🍽️ Diet & Feeding

Corydoras treitlii is an omnivorous bottom feeder that benefits from a varied diet.

• Staple Foods:

  • Sinking micro pellets and quality bottom feeder wafers

• Protein Sources:

  • Frozen or live bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia

• Vegetable Additions:

  • Occasionally blanched spinach or cucumber

• Feeding Schedule: 1–2 times per day

🛑 Don’t rely on leftover food from other fish — Corys need dedicated meals that reach the bottom.

🤝 Tankmates & Compatibility

• Ideal Tankmates:

  • Peaceful tetras, rasboras, pencilfish, dwarf cichlids, and other Corydoras

• Avoid:

  • Aggressive or territorial species

  • Fast-feeding surface fish that outcompete for food

💡 Corydoras treitlii should be kept in groups of at least 5–6 to feel safe and exhibit natural behavior.

🐣 Breeding Tips

Breeding is possible in aquariums that simulate seasonal cues.

• Spawning Style: Egg-layer; typically deposits eggs on glass or plant leaves

• Breeding Triggers:

  • Cooler water changes (~3–4°F drop)

  • Increased feeding with protein-rich live foods

• Tank Setup: Separate breeding tank preferred; fine-leaved plants or spawning mops

• Egg Care: Remove eggs to prevent predation; use methylene blue if fungus becomes an issue

• Fry Food: Infusoria, liquid fry food, or microworms

📌 Maintain excellent water quality during fry development. Sponge filters are ideal for gentle flow and safety.

📝 Care Summary

🧠 Pro Tips

• Use dark sand substrate to accentuate their subtle body coloration

• Observe group dynamics — isolated individuals often hide and become stressed

• Consider floating plants to reduce light intensity and create a more natural habitat

• Ensure sufficient oxygenation during warmer months