Sterbai Corydoras

Sterbai Corydoras (Corydoras sterbai, also classified as Hoplisoma sterbai)

Appearance & Behavior

Bring intricate patterning and gentle bottom-level activity to your freshwater aquarium with Sterbai Corydoras. Pale spots cover their dark heads and bodies, complemented by orange accents on the pectoral fins. A settled group explores the substrate together, using sensitive barbels to search for food before resting in shaded spots. These peaceful, social catfish feel most secure with others of their own species. Occasional quick trips to the surface for air are normal, but frequent surface visits or labored breathing warrant a water-quality and oxygenation check.

Quick Care Guide

• Care Level: Easy to moderate; best in an established aquarium

• Temperament: Peaceful and social

• Adult Size: Approximately 2.5–3 inches

• Minimum Aquarium Size: 20 gallons long for a small group; 30 gallons or larger recommended for more floor space and community stocking

• Temperature: 75–82°F

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water, approximately 2–15 dGH

• Diet: Omnivore; requires dedicated sinking foods

• Swimming Area: Bottom, with occasional trips to the surface

• Recommended Quantity: At least 6 of the same species when aquarium space and stocking allow

Aquarium Setup & Compatibility

Provide fine sand or smooth, rounded substrate, open foraging areas, and shaded retreats among plants and driftwood. Sterbai Corydoras do best in a fully cycled aquarium with stable water conditions, clean substrate, and good oxygenation, especially at warmer temperatures. Avoid sharp gravel, keep access to the surface unobstructed, and use a secure lid. Regular maintenance is essential; these fish do not replace substrate cleaning or water changes.

Good companions include peaceful tetras, rasboras, and small gouramis with compatible temperature and water requirements. Plant-safe snails and adult dwarf shrimp may coexist, though tiny shrimplets can be eaten opportunistically. Avoid aggressive fish, larger predators, and territorial bottom dwellers that may prevent them from feeding or resting. Provide enough floor space for every bottom-dwelling species, and do not rely on mixed Corydoras species to replace a group of Sterbai.

Feeding

Offer a quality sinking catfish pellet or wafer as a staple, supplemented with Hatchery Diet 1.2 mm when it reaches the bottom, Daphnia, and Bloodworms. Adjust food size for younger fish. Feed small portions in open areas and confirm that each fish gets food; feeding near lights-out can help in busy community aquariums. Sterbai Corydoras are not algae eaters and should never be expected to survive on scraps or fish waste.