Three-Lined Corydoras (Corydoras trilineatus) Bred in SA

The Three-Lined Corydoras, also known as the Leopard Corydoras, is a peaceful and beautifully patterned catfish popular among aquarists. Its silvery body is adorned with intricate black markings, including three distinct horizontal lines along its flanks. Native to the slow-moving rivers and streams of South America, particularly the Amazon Basin, this species is hardy and social, thriving in groups in community aquariums.

Natural Habitat

In the wild, Corydoras trilineatus inhabits shallow, slow-moving waters with sandy or muddy substrates. These environments often feature dense vegetation and submerged debris, providing ample cover and foraging opportunities.

Aquarium Care

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 60 liters for a group of 5–6 individuals; larger tanks are recommended for bigger schools.
• Water Temperature: 22–26°C.
• pH Range: 6.0–7.5.
• Water Hardness: 2–15 dGH (soft to moderately hard water).
• Filtration: Gentle to moderate flow with efficient biological filtration.

Aquascaping

• Use soft sand or fine gravel as substrate to protect their sensitive barbels.
• Include plenty of hiding spots with driftwood, rocks, and leaf litter.
• Add live plants such as Amazon Swords, Java Fern, or Cryptocoryne to replicate their natural environment.
• Maintain moderate lighting to create a calm atmosphere.

Tank Mates

• Compatible with other peaceful, small-to-medium-sized fish, such as tetras, rasboras, and dwarf cichlids.
• Can be kept with other bottom-dwellers like kuhli loaches and plecos.
• Avoid large or aggressive species that may harass or outcompete them.

Feeding

Corydoras trilineatus are omnivorous and require a varied diet:

• Staple Foods: High-quality sinking pellets or wafers.
• Protein: Live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
• Vegetable Matter: Blanched zucchini, cucumber, or spinach can be offered occasionally.
  Feed once or twice daily, ensuring food reaches the substrate for easy access.

Breeding

Breeding Three-Lined Corydoras in captivity is achievable with proper care and setup.

Sexing

• Females: Larger and rounder-bodied, especially when carrying eggs.
• Males: Smaller and slimmer with slightly pointed dorsal fins.

Breeding Tank Setup

• Use a separate breeding tank of 40–60 liters with stable conditions:
  • Temperature: 24–26°C.
  • pH: 6.5–7.0.
• Provide fine-leaved plants or spawning mops for egg deposition.

Spawning Process

1. Condition the breeding group with a protein-rich diet, including live or frozen foods.
2. Perform cooler water changes to simulate rainy season conditions and trigger spawning.
3. Females lay adhesive eggs on tank glass, plants, or decorations, which are fertilized by males.
4. Remove adults after spawning to protect the eggs.

Fry Care

• Eggs hatch in 3–5 days.
• Feed fry with infusoria or liquid fry food initially, transitioning to baby brine shrimp or finely crushed flakes as they grow.

Key Notes

• Behavior: Highly social, Corydoras trilineatus should be kept in groups of at least 5–6 individuals to reduce stress and encourage natural behavior.
• Activity: They spend most of their time at the substrate, foraging for food.
• Water Quality: Regular water changes and good filtration are essential for maintaining health and vibrant coloration.
• Health: Monitor for signs of stress or illness, such as fin rot or ich, which can result from poor water conditions.

The Three-Lined Corydoras is a hardy and attractive addition to any community aquarium. Its peaceful nature, intriguing patterns, and lively behavior make it a favorite for aquarists of all levels.