Masked corydoras Care Guide

Overview

The Masked Corydoras is a popular and moderately affordable fish, known for its social behavior and peaceful demeanor. They are bottom dwellers and prefer to be in groups, making them a great addition to community aquariums with other peaceful species. These fish are moderately hardy and moderately rare, making them an intriguing choice for fish enthusiasts who enjoy a bit more of an uncommon find in their tank.

Tank Setup

To keep Masked Corydoras healthy and happy, maintain water pH levels between 6.0 and 7.5. The water temperature should be kept in the range of 22°C to 26°C. Given their social and schooling nature, they should be kept in groups of at least six. Each fish requires about 5 liters of water, so plan your tank size accordingly.

Since they are bottom dwellers, provide a substrate that is smooth and soft to avoid injuring their whiskers. Consider including driftwood and plenty of plants and hiding spots to mimic their natural habitat and provide them with security.

Care and Maintenance

As low maintenance fish, Masked Corydoras are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists. Regular maintenance includes checking water parameters, performing periodic water changes, and ensuring the tank is clean to prevent any build-up of harmful substances. Even though their aggression level is very peaceful, keep an eye on them during breeding, as they may show slightly more aggression than usual.

Feeding

Masked Corydoras have a diverse diet; they accept flakes, pellets, algae wafers, and various frozen, live, or freeze-dried foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, tubifex worms, and daphnia. They also benefit from consuming vegetable matter, color-enhancing foods, and micro worms. Occasionally, feeding stick-on tablets or feeder fish can provide additional nutrition. Monitor their feeding to ensure they are getting a balanced diet to maintain their health and vibrant coloration.

Breeding

The breeding aggression of Masked Corydoras is slightly more aggressive than usual, which means they might exhibit some territorial behavior during this period, but it generally doesn't lead to significant conflicts. If breeding is intentional, provide a separate breeding tank to promote a higher success rate. The breeding tank should mirror their regular environment, and additional soft plants or mops can be added for egg-laying surfaces.

Compatibility

Masked Corydoras are suitable for community tanks with other peaceful fish. They are not territorial, with mildly territorial behavior exhibited only in specific conditions like breeding. Ensure that tank mates have similar water parameter requirements and are not aggressive or overly large, as this can cause stress to the Corydoras.