Sterba’s Cory

Sterba’s Cory (Corydoras Sterbai)

The Sterba’s Cory, also known as Sterbai Cory, or Sterba's Corydoras, is a tropical freshwater fish that is native to South America. This species is known for its rich dark grey/brown body color adorned with bands of white spots that lead from the front of the dorsal fin down to the caudal fin. The head also features visible white spots. The pectoral and ventral fin spines are orange, while the rest of the fins are clear with black banding. The Sterba’s Cory is a medium-sized Corydoras, reaching an adult size of up to 2.75 inches.

The Sterba’s Cory is a very peaceful community fish and can coexist with other non-aggressive species. However, it's important to ensure that food reaches them at the bottom, especially when other greedy fish are present.

This peaceful shoaling fish thrives best when housed in groups of no less than 6 individuals, creating a dynamic and harmonious aquarium environment. The Sterba’s Cory is compatible with a wide array of popular fish species, including Dwarf Cichlids, Tetras, Rasboras, Guppies, Mollies, Swordtails, Angelfish, Hatchetfish, peaceful Barbs, and other peaceful Catfish. Avoid housing them with aggressive, territorial, or larger fish that might see them as food or compete with them for food at the bottom of the tank.

Feeding the Sterba’s Cory is easy; they enjoy an omnivorous and will eat most food that sinks to the bottom of the tank, including sinking, flake, and catfish pellets. They also have a carnivorous side, enjoying foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.

In terms of habitat, the Sterba’s Cory thrives in well-oxygenated water with a moderate flow, mirroring their natural riverbed habitats. They favor a soft sandy substrate where they can safely forage for food without damaging their delicate barbels and underbelly, which could otherwise lead to infection and other health complications. The aquarium should be furnished with ample hiding spots, including driftwood, rocks, caves, and live plants to offer shade and relief from the light. Floating plants can provide subdued lighting, creating an ideal environment for these bottom-dwelling fish.

Regarding their water parameter and aquarium size, the minimum recommended aquarium size is 30 gallons or larger for a community tank. The Sterba’s Cory prefers a pH range of 6.0-7.5, a hardness of 2-12 dGH, and a temperature range of 75-82°F (24-28°C).