Fish
Bandit Cory
Corydoras metae
Origin: The bandit cory is endemic to the Meta River in the Orinoco basin of Colombia, which gives the species its name. It inhabits clear tributaries with sandy beds, soft slightly acidic water, and moderate flow.
Also known as: Masked cory, Corydoras metae
Fact sheet
- Size
- 5 cm
- Lifespan
- 7 years
- Minimum tank size
- 80 L
- Temperature
- 22–26 °C
- pH
- 6–7.5
- Hardness GH
- 2–15 °dH
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Social behavior
- Schooling
- Group size
- 6+ individuals
- Swimming zone
- Bottom
- Diet
- Omnivore
- Jumps out
- No
- Eats plants
- No
Overview
The bandit cory is recognised by the black 'mask' across the eyes and a dark stripe along the back that runs into the dorsal fin. It is a compact, peaceful, and hardy armoured catfish kept in a group of at least 6. It suits a community tank with small peaceful fish well. It actively explores soft substrate in search of food.
Appearance
The body is pinkish-beige, up to 5 cm long. A black vertical 'mask' band crosses the eyes, and a broad dark arch runs from the nape through the dorsal fin to the tail. The belly is pale and the fins translucent. Females are larger and fuller than males.
Care
A tank of at least 80 L with soft sandy substrate and cover. Temperature 22–26 °C, pH 6.0–7.5, hardness GH 2–15. Clean water, good filtration, and 25–30% weekly water changes are needed. Use sand or rounded gravel.
Feeding
An omnivorous bottom catfish. It takes sinking tablets and pellets, live or frozen bloodworm, daphnia, and tubifex. Feed once or twice daily, making sure food reaches the bottom.
Compatibility
A peaceful schooling fish. Excellent with tetras, rasboras, danios, and dwarf cichlids. Large aggressive tankmates are unsuitable. Keep in groups of at least 6.
Breeding
Breeding follows the general corydoras pattern with a cool, soft water change. The female carries the eggs in a pelvic-fin 'pouch' and sticks them to glass and plants. Remove the adults; the fry hatch in 3–5 days.
Fun facts
The name bandit cory comes from the black eye mask resembling a robber's mask. The species is named after the Meta River in Colombia. Several corydoras share a similar pattern and are often confused with one another.