HORSEMAN CORYDORAS

Horseman Corydoras (Corydoras sp. "Horseman") is a less commonly known but interesting species of Corydoras catfish. While information on this specific species is more limited compared to other Corydoras species, here’s a general care guide based on the needs of similar Corydoras species:

Tank Size and Setup

• Tank Size: A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended. Corydoras are active bottom dwellers that appreciate ample swimming space and room to forage.
• Aquascape: Provide a tank setup with a soft substrate like fine gravel or sand. Corydoras use their barbels to search for food on the substrate, so a smooth, non-abrasive substrate is ideal. Add hiding spots and areas to explore using rocks, driftwood, and live plants.
• Substrate: Fine gravel or sand is best. Avoid substrates with sharp edges that could damage their barbels.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting is sufficient. The focus should be on creating a comfortable environment for the fish rather than intense lighting.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: Horseman Corydoras prefer temperatures between 72-78°F (22-26°C). Use a reliable heater to maintain a stable temperature.
• pH: They thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
• Hardness: They prefer soft to moderately hard water, with a general hardness (GH) of 4-12 dGH.
• Water Quality: Maintain excellent water quality with regular water changes (20-30% weekly). Ensure ammonia and nitrite levels are at 0 ppm and keep nitrates below 20 ppm. Use a high-quality water conditioner to treat tap water before adding it to the tank.

Filtration and Water Flow

• Filtration: Use a filtration system that provides both mechanical and biological filtration. Sponge filters or small canister filters work well, as they provide gentle filtration without creating strong currents.
• Water Flow: Moderate water flow is ideal. Corydoras are adapted to slow-moving waters and prefer gentle currents.

Feeding

• Diet: Horseman Corydoras are omnivorous and will eat a variety of foods. Offer high-quality sinking pellets or wafers as their staple diet. Supplement with live or frozen foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms.
• Variety: A varied diet ensures they receive all necessary nutrients and helps maintain their health.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed them once or twice a day. Offer only as much food as they can consume within a few minutes to avoid overfeeding and maintain water quality.