False Bandit Corydoras

The False Bandit Corydoras has a pale body, a dark eye mask and a black band that runs diagonally from beneath the dorsal fin toward the lower tail base. Unlike the Bandit Cory, the rear band generally continues into the lower lobe of the tail.

Identify this profile by the combination of a dark diagonal band running from the dorsal region toward the lower caudal peduncle, behind a pale head. Older sources commonly list this fish as Corydoras melini; the current profile follows the accepted or revised placement Hoplisoma melini. 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 settled group over fine sand in a mature aquarium with excellent filtration, high oxygen levels, shaded retreats and open feeding areas. Avoid abrupt changes, dirty substrate and sharp gravel, and leave clear access to the surface for normal air-gulping behaviour.

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.

Choose calm, non-aggressive tank mates that tolerate the same clean, oxygen-rich conditions and allow food to reach the bottom. Avoid boisterous cichlids, large predators and fast bottom feeders that can intimidate or outcompete the group.

Soft, mildly acidic water best reflects the natural habitat and usually gives the most reliable breeding results. Stable clean water is more important than forcing an exact pH.

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.

Captive spawning is reported less often than for common corys. A well-conditioned group, excellent water quality and seasonal-style changes may help, but egg production and fry survival can be inconsistent; the adults do not provide parental care.