Polka Dot Cory

About

Found in the Paraguay River basin of South America, this small bottom-dweller, Corydoras polystictus, is one of over 180 described species in a genus famous for its diversity and charm. Like all corydoras, it wears two rows of bony plates along its flanks instead of scales. A trait that earns the group their "armored catfish" nickname. It can be distinguished from the similar C. similis by its plain caudal peduncle, which lacks the bluish smudge marking found on that species. One of the more fascinating things about this fish is its ability to gulp atmospheric air at the surface, processed through a specialized section of intestine. You'll see this regularly in a healthy tank and it's nothing to worry about. Though a sharp increase in surface visits can signal declining water quality worth investigating. C. polystictus is about as peaceful as fish get, and it thrives when kept in a group of at least six. Solo or paired individuals tend to be shy and inactive, while a proper school brings out confident, busy behavior throughout the day. It suits a wide range of community setups, though it should be paired with similarly calm tankmates rather than anything boisterous or large. Sinking foods are a must. Don't rely on this fish to survive on scraps drifting down from above.