Napoensis Corydora (Cory Napo)

Introduction: The Napoensis Corydora, also known as the Napo Cory or the Napoensis Catfish, is a small, peaceful freshwater fish belonging to the Corydoras genus. Originating from the Rio Napo region in Ecuador and Peru, this species is prized in the aquarium hobby for its calm temperament, fascinating behavior, and ease of care. Its attractive patterning, with dark spots and lines on a silver base, adds a striking element to any community tank. These bottom-dwelling fish are social and do best in groups, where they display playful, active behaviors.

Scientific Name: The Napoensis Corydora is scientifically named Corydoras napoensis, after the Rio Napo region where it is found.

Water Quality and Temperature:

• Temperature: Keep the water temperature between 72°F to 78°F (22°C to 26°C) to replicate the tropical waters of their natural habitat.
• pH Level: Maintain a pH level of 6.0 to 7.5, with slightly acidic to neutral water conditions being ideal.
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water, within the range of 2 to 12 dGH, is preferred.

Feeding: Napoensis Corydoras are omnivores and thrive on a varied diet. They are bottom-feeders, so ensure the food reaches the substrate.

• Sinking Pellets: Provide high-quality sinking pellets designed for catfish or bottom-dwelling fish.
• Live or Frozen Foods: Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, daphnia, or brine shrimp to provide extra protein.
• Vegetables: Blanched vegetables like zucchini or spinach can be included to offer additional fiber.

Tank Mates: Napoensis Corydoras are peaceful and can coexist well with a wide range of tank mates. Ideal companions include other peaceful community fish such as tetras, rasboras, small livebearers, and other Corydoras species. Avoid keeping them with aggressive or large predatory fish, as they may be harassed or outcompeted for food.

Substrates and Tank Decorations: A soft sandy substrate is recommended for Napoensis Corydoras, as they like to sift through the sand with their barbels while searching for food. Rough or sharp substrates can damage their delicate barbels. Include plenty of hiding spots in the form of driftwood, rocks, and live plants. These elements provide shelter and mimic their natural environment, helping to reduce stress.

Suitable Plants: These fish do not interact much with plants, but they thrive in a well-planted tank. Aquatic plants such as Java Fern, Anubias, or Amazon Swords can enhance the tank’s aesthetics and provide additional hiding places.

Sexing: Males and females of this species are relatively similar in appearance, though females tend to be larger and broader, especially when viewed from above, as they become rounder when carrying eggs. Males are generally more slender.

Breeding: Breeding Napoensis Corydoras in captivity is possible with the right conditions. They are egg scatterers, laying their eggs on flat surfaces such as leaves, rocks, or even the aquarium glass. A slightly cooler water change can trigger spawning. Once eggs are laid, parents do not provide care, so it’s advisable to remove the eggs or the adults to prevent them from eating the eggs. The eggs hatch in about three to five days, and the fry can be fed infusoria or powdered fry food.

Maximum Size and Longevity: Napoensis Corydoras reach a size of about 2 to 2.5 inches (5 to 6.5 cm) in length. With proper care, they can live for 5 to 7 years in a well-maintained aquarium.

General Information: These active, schooling fish are a delight to watch as they explore the bottom of the tank. They help keep the substrate clean by scavenging for leftover food, though they should not be relied upon solely for this purpose. Their peaceful nature and attractive appearance make them a great addition to community tanks, especially for those who enjoy keeping groups of small, active fish.

A Fun Fact: Corydoras have the unique ability to breathe atmospheric air by gulping it from the water’s surface. They possess a specialized organ, similar to a lung, that allows them to extract oxygen directly from the air, making them adaptable to varying oxygen levels in the water.