False Bandit Corydoras

The false bandit corydoras is recognized by its pale cream body, the black mask across the eyes and the black band that starts below the dorsal fin and runs diagonally down toward the lower lobe of the tail. This is why it is also called the "false bandit corydoras": in the metae corydoras (bandit corydoras) the band runs in a straight line over the back to the tail base. Adults are around 5 cm. Because it comes from the upper Rio Negro, it prefers soft, slightly acidic water.

• At least 60 liters for a group of 6–10.
• Fine, soft sand substrate; a few dried leaves and roots.
• 22–26°C, soft, slightly acidic and clean water; values should be kept stable.
• A 20–30% water change every week; a mature aquarium.

Sinking granules and tablets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp and daphnia. Stimulate the appetite of newly arrived fish with frozen food first.

A peaceful, calm bottom dweller; it becomes bolder in a group of its own kind. It does not harm fish or shrimp.

Good companions: cardinal and neon tetras, pencilfish, Apistogramma, otocinclus, small soft-water fish.

Avoid: cichlids that claim the bottom, large and boisterous fish, species that need hard water.