Our Guide To Keeping Bearded Cory Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Scleromystax barbatus
   • Common name: Bearded Cory
   • Family: Callichthyidae
   • Origin: South America, specifically in the Amazon River basin and coastal rivers in Brazil
   • Adult length: 5 - 7 cm (2 - 2.75 inches)
   • Lifespan: 5 - 7 years

2. Tank Setup:

   • Bearded Corys prefer a tank with plenty of hiding spots such as caves, driftwood, and dense vegetation.
   • They appreciate a sandy substrate as they like to sift through it in search of food.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Bearded Corys thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water conditions with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
   • Keep the water temperature between 22 to 26°C (72 to 79°F).

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • A moderate water flow is suitable for Bearded Corys, so choose a filter that provides gentle to moderate flow.

5. Diet:

   • Bearded Corys are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods. Offer them a balanced diet consisting of high-quality flake or pellet food as a staple.
   • Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia to provide essential nutrients.

6. Tank mates:

   • Bearded Corys are peaceful and do well in community tanks with other peaceful fish species like tetras, rasboras, and small peaceful cichlids.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Bearded Corys are peaceful bottom-dwelling fish and are best kept in groups of at least 6 individuals.
   • They are compatible with a wide range of community tank mates, but avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping fish.