Black Venezuelan Corydoras (Corydoras schultzei “Black”) Import

The Black Venezuelan Cory is a stunning, selectively bred variety of Corydoras schultzei, known for its dark black body with hints of bronze and gold under good lighting. This hardy, peaceful bottom-dweller is perfect for community tanks and thrives in groups.

Quick Facts:

• Scientific Name: Corydoras schultzei “Black”
• Common Names: Black Venezuelan Cory, Black Corydoras
• Origin: Captive-bred variant (original species from Venezuela, Brazil)
• Size: 5–6 cm
• Lifespan: 5–7 years
• Temperament: Peaceful, social
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: 80+ litres (Best in 100+ litres for groups)
• Temperature: 22–26°C
• pH Range: 6.0–7.5
• Water Hardness: 2–12 dGH
• Filtration: Moderate to high flow with good oxygenation
• Substrate & Decorations:
  • Fine sand substrate (to protect their sensitive barbels).
  • Driftwood, caves, and leaf litter mimic their natural environment.
  • Live plants (Java Fern, Anubias, Amazon Swords) provide shade and hiding spots.

Behavior & Tank Mates

• Very social – best kept in groups of 6+
• Active and playful, constantly foraging along the substrate
• Compatible Tank Mates:
  • Small, peaceful fish (Tetras, Rasboras, Dwarf Gouramis, Otocinclus).
  • Other Corydoras species.
  • Shrimp and snails (Amano Shrimp, Nerite Snails, Mystery Snails).
• Avoid large, aggressive fish (cichlids, large barbs).

Diet

Black Venezuelan Corys are omnivorous scavengers, but they need a balanced diet:

• Sinking Pellets & Wafers (cory-specific or high-protein formulas).
• Frozen & Live Foods (bloodworms, daphnia, brine shrimp).
• Blanched Vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, spinach).

Breeding

• Egg layers – prefer soft, slightly acidic water (pH ~6.5, temp ~24°C)
• Females lay eggs on plant leaves or glass surfaces
• Eggs hatch in ~4 days, fry feed on microfoods and powdered fry food
• Best breeding success in a separate tank with gentle filtration

Care Tips

✔ Keep in groups of 6+ for natural behavior
✔ Fine sand is essential to protect their delicate barbels
✔ Perform regular water changes (30% weekly) for clean, oxygen-rich water
✔ Avoid rough or sharp gravel that can damage their undersides

Why Keep Black Venezuelan Corys?

✅ Rare and striking black coloration
✅ Peaceful and great for community tanks
✅ Helps keep the substrate clean by scavenging
✅ Hardy and beginner-friendly

Would you like advice on setting up a tank for them?