Sterbai Corydoras
Corydoras sterbai
Minimum Tank
15 Gallons
Adult Size
2.5 inches
Temperature
75-84°F (24-29°C)
pH Range
6.0-7.5
Lifespan
10 years
School Size
6+ fish
About Sterbai Corydoras
The sterbai corydoras is a striking catfish from the upper Guapore River in Brazil. It features a rich dark brown to black body covered in an intricate pattern of white spots and reticulations, with distinctively bright orange pectoral fin spines that make it instantly identifiable. Sterbai corys are among the most attractive corydoras species and command higher prices than more common varieties. They are notably more heat-tolerant than most corydoras, thriving at temperatures up to 86°F, which makes them one of the few corydoras suitable for keeping with discus. Their active foraging behavior and bold pattern make them a standout addition to any community tank with appropriate water conditions.
Care Requirements
Tank Setup
- • Minimum 15-gallon tank required
- • Temperature: 75-84°F (24-29°C)
- • pH: 6.0 - 7.5
- • Category: Catfish
Diet & Feeding
- • Diet type: Omnivore
- • Feed 1-2 times daily
- • Varied diet recommended
Tank Mate Compatibility
Compatible With
Avoid Keeping With
Care Tips
Expert Tips
Sterbai corydoras are uniquely suited among corydoras for warmer tanks at 77-86°F, making them the go-to bottom-dweller for discus setups and other warm-water communities. Keep them in groups of at least six on fine sand substrate. While slightly more expensive than common corys, they are similarly hardy once established. Feed sinking pellets, frozen bloodworms, and wafers, ensuring food reaches them on the bottom. Their orange pectoral spines are mildly venomous, so handle carefully during netting. Provide hiding spots among driftwood and plants, though they tend to be bolder than many cory species. Regular water changes maintain their vivid patterning.
Quick Facts
57L
Min Tank (15gal)
6cm
Adult Size (2.5")
10yr
Lifespan
6+
Min School
Build Your Perfect Community Tank
Find compatible tankmates for your Sterbai Corydoras
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Tank Mates for Sterbai Corydoras
Species from our database with overlapping water parameters, compatible temperaments and a realistic shared tank size.
X-Ray Tetra
Pristella maxillaris
easy · 10+ gal
Dwarf Gourami
Trichogaster lalius
moderate · 10+ gal
Kuhli Loach
Pangio kuhlii
moderate · 15+ gal
Rummy Nose Tetra
Hemigrammus rhodostomus
moderate · 20+ gal
Similar Care Level
Other easy-care species that suit a comparable setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a Sterbai Corydoras need?
A Sterbai Corydoras needs a minimum tank size of 15 gallons (57 litres). They should be kept in schools of at least 6.
What water parameters does a Sterbai Corydoras need?
Sterbai Corydoras thrive in water between 75-84°F (24-29°C) with a pH of 6.0-7.5.
Are Sterbai Corydoras easy to care for?
Sterbai Corydoras are considered easy to care for. They are peaceful fish with a lifespan of about 10 years.
How big do Sterbai Corydoras get and what do they eat?
Sterbai Corydoras reach about 2.5 inches and are omnivores. Sterbai corydoras are uniquely suited among corydoras for warmer tanks at 77-86°F, making them the go-to bottom-dweller for discus setups and other warm-water communities. Keep them in groups of at least six on fine sand substrate. While slightly more expensive than common corys, they are similarly hardy once established. Feed sinking pellets, frozen bloodworms, and wafers, ensuring food reaches them on the bottom. Their orange pectoral spines are mildly venomous, so handle carefully during netting. Provide hiding spots among driftwood and plants, though they tend to be bolder than many cory species. Regular water changes maintain their vivid patterning.