Cory Metae

Overview

• Scientific Name: Corydoras metae
• Common Names: Bandit Corydoras, Masked Corydoras, Meta Cory
• Family: Callichthyidae
• Origin: Native to Colombia, primarily found in the Meta River basin, from which its name is derived.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Typically grows to 2 to 2.5 inches (5-6.5 cm) in length.
• Coloration: The body of the Bandit Cory is generally pale to off-white, with a distinct black horizontal stripe running from the base of the dorsal fin to the tail. Its most recognizable feature is the black band or "mask" that stretches from eye to eye across its face, giving it the “bandit” appearance.
• Body Shape: It has the typical Corydoras shape—short, rounded, with a slightly flattened belly and armored body covered with bony plates instead of scales.

Behavior

• Temperament: Peaceful, like most Corydoras species. They are social and schooling fish, preferring to be kept in groups of at least 5 to 6 individuals. When kept alone, they can become shy and stressed.
• Activity: Bottom-dwelling, spending most of their time foraging along the substrate for food. They are active during the day and will occasionally swim to the surface to gulp air.
• Air Gulping: Corydoras metae can also breathe atmospheric air through their intestines, allowing them to survive in low-oxygen environments.

Habitat and Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: A group of Bandit Corys requires a minimum tank size of 20 gallons.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72°F to 78°F (22°C to 26°C)
  • pH Level: 6.0 to 7.5
  • Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (2 to 12 dGH)
• Substrate: Soft sand or fine gravel is ideal to protect their sensitive barbels. Avoid sharp substrates that could cause injury.
• Tank Setup:
  • Add plants, driftwood, and rocks to provide hiding spots.
  • They prefer a tank with low to moderate lighting.
  • Ensure gentle water flow, as they come from slow-moving rivers.

Diet

• Omnivorous: Bandit Corys will eat a variety of foods, particularly those that sink to the bottom.
  • They can be fed sinking pellets, catfish wafers, and algae tablets.
  • They enjoy live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp.
  • Supplement their diet with occasional vegetable matter and finely chopped food.
• Feed them once or twice a day, ensuring the food reaches the substrate for them to forage.

Breeding

• Spawning Behavior: Corydoras metae are relatively easy to breed in captivity.
  • Spawning Conditions: Cooler water changes, simulating the rainy season, can help trigger spawning. Females lay eggs on tank surfaces, and males fertilize them externally.
  • Egg Care: The eggs hatch in about 3 to 5 days. The fry can be fed baby brine shrimp or finely ground fish food.

Compatibility

• Tank Mates: Bandit Corys are highly peaceful and do well with other community fish, including:
  • Tetras
  • Rasboras
  • Small livebearers like Guppies and Mollies
  • Other Corydoras species
  • Plecos and other small, non-aggressive bottom dwellers
  • Avoid large, aggressive species that may harm or outcompete them for food.

Lifespan

• Lifespan: With good care, the Bandit Corydoras can live up to 5 to 8 years in captivity.

Interesting Facts

1. Unique Mask: The distinct black "mask" across its eyes is a unique feature among Corydoras species, making them easily recognizable.
2. Hardy Fish: Like other Corydoras, the Bandit Cory is hardy and can thrive in a wide range of water conditions.
3. Social Fish: They are happiest when kept in schools, where they show more activity and social interactions.
4. Scavengers: While they help clean up leftover food, they still require a proper, balanced diet to thrive.

Health Considerations

• Barbel Erosion: Ensure soft substrates to prevent barbel erosion, which can occur on sharp or rough surfaces.
• Diseases: Corydoras metae are prone to common freshwater diseases like Ich and fin rot, particularly if water quality is not maintained.