The blue leopard Corydoras formally known as Corydoras paleatus is species of Corydoras endemic to Southern Brazil and its range extends through Uruguay to Argentina. These catfish are omnivorous in the wild where they are known to feed on worms, insects, crustaceans and plant matter. A particular interesting aspect of this fish is its ability to abduct its pectoral fin, which produces a sound. This is used by males during courtship and as a communication tactic during distress.

 

Corydoras paleatus or peppered catfish make great community tank residents and should be kept in small groups of four to six individuals so they can shoal together. Additionally these catfish are very entertaining to watch in the aquarium. It has been recorded that their barbels or whiskers may be sensitive to the substrate so keeping fine sand or gravel. These catfish are both peaceful and very attractively marked. They can be kept with smaller peaceful cichlids like Apistogramma or tropical fish like danios, liverbearers and common tetras.

 

Relative to water parameters C. paleatus can thrive over a temperature range between 60 to 77 degrees with a pH between 6.0 - 7.5 respectively. As far as food requirements go the peppered catfish will eagerly accept most prepared aquarium foods, sinking catfish pellets, algae wafers, freeze dried and live foods. Some hobbyists like to offer blanched spinach dispensed with a magnetic clip attached to the aquarium. They benefit from hiding places so provide driftwood, clay flower pots or PVC tubing. C. paleatus are a wonderful addition to a community tank check out the videos below to see them in action.

 

 

 

 

Blue leopard Corydoras

Mottled Corydoras

Peppered Catfish