Polystictus Corydoras

The polystictus corydoras takes its name ("many-spotted") from its dense pattern: its pale beige body, head and fins are covered in many small dark spots. Adults are around 4 cm, which makes it a good corydoras choice for small aquariums. It comes from the upper Paraguay basin, in the Pantanal region, and because of the shallow, warm waters there it adapts well to warm water.

• At least 54–60 liters for a group of 8–12.
• Fine, rounded sand substrate; plants and shaded corners.
• 22–27°C, soft to moderately hard, clean and well-oxygenated water.
• Regular water changes and a mature aquarium.

Sinking granules suited to its small mouth, crumbled tablets, frozen brine shrimp, daphnia and small bloodworms. Make sure the food actually reaches the bottom.

A peaceful, social bottom dweller; in a large group it forages in the open throughout the day. It leaves shrimp and small fish alone.

Good companions: small tetras, rasboras, Endler's livebearers, otocinclus, dwarf shrimp, dwarf corydoras.

Avoid: large fish it would fit into the mouth of, cichlids that claim the bottom, greedy and fast food competitors.