Blackstripe Corydoras

A pale grey to beige cory with fine dark spotting and a distinct dark stripe along the midline of the flank. The stripe may break into blotches toward the tail, and pattern intensity varies between populations and mood.

Identify this profile by the combination of a pale body with a strong dark lateral stripe, fine reticulation, and dark fin markings. Older sources commonly list this fish as Corydoras bondi; the current profile follows the accepted or revised placement Hoplisoma bondi. Colour alone can be unreliable in stressed, juvenile, or poorly conditioned fish, so body shape, snout length, fin pattern, and provenance should also be checked.

Mature females are usually larger and broader through the abdomen, especially when viewed from above, while males tend to remain slimmer. Juveniles are difficult to sex, and body shape is more dependable than fin shape or colour.

Keep a proper group over smooth sand, with open foraging space, shaded cover, roots or plants and clean, well-oxygenated water. Leave unobstructed access to the surface because these catfish periodically gulp air, and avoid sharp gravel that can damage the mouth and barbels.

A peaceful shoaling catfish that may remain reserved in a small group or brightly lit, exposed tank. Once settled with enough companions and cover, it becomes an active bottom forager and joins regular group movements.

Keep at least 6 of the same species or coded population, with 8 or more preferred where space permits. A mixed collection of single corys does not fully replace a proper same-species group.

It is not territorial. Males may briefly chase one another or follow females during courtship, but sustained aggression is unusual when the group has adequate floor space.

Best with peaceful small or medium community fish that do not monopolise food. Avoid aggressive cichlids, fin-nippers, large predatory fish and very competitive bottom feeders; eggs, fry and tiny shrimp may still be eaten opportunistically.

Soft to moderately hard, slightly acidic to neutral water is suitable. Provide good oxygenation and keep ammonia and nitrite at zero.

Feed a varied sinking diet based on quality catfish pellets or wafers, supported by small frozen or live foods and occasional plant-based ingredients. Deliver food directly to the group and check that every fish eats instead of expecting it to survive on scraps.

Feed after faster surface and midwater fish have taken their share, and confirm that every individual reaches food. Use small portions once or twice daily, remove persistent leftovers, and vary prepared and frozen or live foods.

Detailed aquarium breeding records are limited. It is expected to use the usual Corydoradinae T-position and attach adhesive eggs to firm surfaces, but triggers, egg output and fry requirements should not be presented as reliably established for this species.