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?