The Cory Peru Black fish, or Corydoras semiaquilus, is a peaceful, bottom-dwelling catfish from Peru known for its deep, solid black color and sleek appearance. It is a hardy species that lives in schools and is suitable for community aquariums, where it sifts through the substrate for food. These fish are armored with bony plates, have sensitive barbels, and are an excellent addition for beginners and experienced aquarists alike.
Appearance
Color: Deep, solid black coloration throughout the body.
Body: Armored catfish with two rows of overlapping bony plates along their flanks and a large head.
Fins: Often has a long snout and pointed fin tips, according to Aqua Imports, Nation Wide Aquatics, and Seriously Fish.
Size: Grows to about 2.5 to 3 inches (6-8 cm) in length.
Behavior and temperament
Temperament: Very docile and peaceful, making it a great community fish.
Social: Schooling fish that feel safer in groups, so it's best to keep them in a group of six or more.
Activity: Spends most of its time on the aquarium floor, sifting through the substrate for food.
Care and tank requirements
Tank size: A minimum of 15-20 gallons is recommended for a small group.
Substrate: Prefers fine sand or smooth gravel to protect its sensitive barbels from damage.
Water parameters: Prefers soft to moderate water hardness and a pH between 6.5 and 7.2. They can be somewhat flexible as long as changes are not sudden.
Diet: Omnivorous, accepting most dry and frozen foods.
Tank mates: Compatible with other peaceful community fish like tetras, rasboras, and dwarf cichlids.
The Cory Peru Black fish, or Corydoras semiaquilus, is a peaceful, bottom-dwelling catfish from Peru known for its deep, solid black color and sleek appearance. It is a hardy species that lives in schools and is suitable for community aquariums, where it sifts through the substrate for food. These fish are armored with bony plates, have sensitive barbels, and are an excellent addition for beginners and experienced aquarists alike.
Appearance
Color: Deep, solid black coloration throughout the body.
Body: Armored catfish with two rows of overlapping bony plates along their flanks and a large head.
Fins: Often has a long snout and pointed fin tips, according to Aqua Imports, Nation Wide Aquatics, and Seriously Fish.
Size: Grows to about 2.5 to 3 inches (6-8 cm) in length.
Behavior and temperament
Temperament: Very docile and peaceful, making it a great community fish.
Social: Schooling fish that feel safer in groups, so it's best to keep them in a group of six or more.
Activity: Spends most of its time on the aquarium floor, sifting through the substrate for food.
Care and tank requirements
Tank size: A minimum of 15-20 gallons is recommended for a small group.
Substrate: Prefers fine sand or smooth gravel to protect its sensitive barbels from damage.
Water parameters: Prefers soft to moderate water hardness and a pH between 6.5 and 7.2. They can be somewhat flexible as long as changes are not sudden.
Diet: Omnivorous, accepting most dry and frozen foods.
Tank mates: Compatible with other peaceful community fish like tetras, rasboras, and dwarf cichlids.
