Sterbai Cory

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The Sterbai Cory is a peaceful and attractive bottom-dwelling catfish, recognised by its dark body, white spotting and distinctive orange pectoral fins. It is one of the most popular Corydoras species for community and planted aquariums.

Sterbai Corydoras are active, social fish that spend much of their time searching the substrate for food. They are best kept in groups, where they display more natural behaviour and confidence.

This species is generally peaceful and can be housed with tetras, rasboras, peaceful livebearers, dwarf cichlids and other community fish. A soft sand substrate is recommended to protect their sensitive barbels while they forage.

Sterbai Corydoras are not a replacement for regular aquarium maintenance. They require a balanced diet, clean water and stable conditions to remain healthy.

Quick Care Guide

• Scientific Name: Corydoras sterbai

• Common Name: Sterbai Cory, Sterbai Corydoras

• Family: Callichthyidae

• Type: Freshwater bottom-dwelling catfish

• Adult Size: Approximately 5–6 cm

• Temperament: Peaceful

• Care Level: Easy

• Minimum Aquarium: 75 litres

• Temperature: 24–28°C

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

• Diet: Sinking pellets, wafers, frozen foods and live foods

• Tank Level: Bottom

• Group Size: 6 or more

• Lifespan: Approximately 5–8 years with proper care

• Suitable For: Peaceful community and planted aquariums

• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel recommended

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Sterbai Corydoras should be kept together?

A group of six or more is recommended. Larger groups encourage natural behaviour and help the fish feel secure.

Are Sterbai Corydoras suitable for beginners?

Yes. They are peaceful and relatively hardy when kept in a mature aquarium with stable water parameters and a suitable diet.

Do they clean the aquarium?

They help consume leftover food, but they do not replace gravel cleaning, water changes or other regular maintenance.

What substrate is best for Sterbai Corydoras?

Fine sand or smooth, rounded gravel is ideal. Sharp gravel can damage their barbels and mouths.

Can they be kept with shrimp?

Yes. They are generally peaceful and can be kept with adult freshwater shrimp, although very small shrimp fry may be vulnerable.

Do Sterbai Corydoras need sinking food?

Yes. They should receive sinking foods that reach the bottom, including quality Corydoras pellets, wafers and occasional frozen foods.

Common Mistakes

• Keeping only one or two Corydoras.

• Using sharp gravel that can damage their barbels.

• Assuming they survive only on leftover food.

• Keeping them in an uncycled or poorly maintained aquarium.

• Overfeeding and allowing waste to accumulate.

• Housing them with aggressive or highly competitive tankmates.