Dirty bandits

Corydoras loxozonus

Native Location: Columbia

Climate: Tropical

Maximum Size: 5cm

Temperament: Peaceful

Diet: Omnivore

Breeding: Moderate

Temperature Range: 22-26℃ (69.8-77℉)

Preferred pH Range: 6.5-7.5

Minimum Aquarium Size: 100L+ (80cmx50cmx30cm)

Potential Tankmates: Apistogramma, Angelfish, Rummynose tetra, Amapa Tetra

Care Level: Easy

The Corydoras loxozonus, a charming and peaceful species of freshwater catfish, is native to the serene waterways of Colombia, specifically within the Rio Meta basin. In their natural habitat, these fish are found in blackwater waterways that tend to be tinted with a tea colour due to tannins released from decaying organic matter. The substrate is typically soft and composed of fine sand or mud, ideal for their barbel-feeling activities. The aquatic environment is often enriched with leaf litter, providing essential cover and foraging grounds.

Creating a home aquarium for Corydoras loxozonus is a responsibility that requires us to mirror their native habitat. A tank of at least 100 litres is recommended to provide ample space for a small group, as they are social fish that thrive in the company of their kind. The substrate should be soft, fine sand or smooth gravel to protect their sensitive barbels. Incorporating elements like driftwood, leaf litter, and a variety of live plants such as Anubias or Java Fern will not only enrich their environment but also maintain water quality by providing natural filtration. The water should be kept slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.5-7.2) with a temperature range of 22-26°C (72-79°F), replicating the warm, tannin-rich waters of their Colombian habitats. Soft, dim lighting can simulate the shaded rivers they originate from, creating a calm atmosphere. Regular water changes and a gentle filtration system are crucial to keep their environment clean and well-oxygenated.

In a home aquarium, Corydoras loxozonus thrives on a varied diet encompassing plant- and protein-rich foods, closely mimicking their natural feeding habits. A foundation of high-quality sinking pellets or tablets ensures they receive essential nutrients, given their bottom-dwelling nature. Supplementing this with live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp provides the necessary proteins for healthy growth and vitality. Additionally, incorporating blanched vegetables like cucumber, and shelled peas can offer variety and essential fibres. It's important to feed them in moderation, ideally once or twice a day, with quantities they can consume within a few minutes to avoid overfeeding and potential water quality issues. This balanced approach to their diet keeps these delightful scavengers in optimal health and encourages their natural foraging behaviour, making for a more active and engaging aquarium experience.

Breeding Corydoras loxozonus in a home aquarium involves a few key steps to mimic the environmental cues of their natural habitat. The breeding group should be conditioned with high-quality foods, including live and frozen varieties, to encourage spawning readiness. A slight drop in water temperature, achieved by partial water changes with cooler water, can simulate the onset of the rainy season, a natural breeding trigger for these fish. Providing a soft, sandy substrate alongside ample hiding spots with plants and caves can create an ideal breeding environment. Once spawning occurs, often initiated by a distinctive "T-position" mating dance, eggs will be laid on aquarium glass, plants, or décor. Moving the eggs to a separate, well-oxygenated tank with similar water conditions is advisable to protect them from being eaten. The fry, upon hatching, can be fed with infusoria or liquid fry food, gradually transitioning to micro worms and finely crushed flakes as they grow. While requiring attention to detail, this process can be incredibly rewarding as it allows aquarists to observe the fascinating reproductive behaviours and early life stages of Corydoras loxozonus.

Dead on Arrival (DOA) Policy: In the unfortunate event that your fish arrives dead, please follow these steps: Within 12 hours of the delivery, take clear, unopened bag pictures showing the deceased fish. Send these photographs and your order number to our customer service email at [email protected] or to our Facebook page, and we will then offer a refund or store credit for the cost of the fish. 

Two-Week Guarantee Policy: We stand behind the health and quality of our fish, which is why we offer a two-week guarantee starting from the day of delivery. If your fish dies within this time frame, adhere to the following procedure: Take clear photos of the deceased fish. Using a reliable test kit, document water parameters (pH, ammonia, nitrate, nitrite levels) via a dated image. Please email us the photographs, water parameters, and order number to [email protected] or our Facebook page. After reviewing your claim, if approved, we will issue a store credit for the cost of the fish. Our two-week guarantee does not cover fish deaths due to unsuitable water conditions, incompatible tank mates or "disasters", i.e. a heater overheating. To prevent such situations, we recommend thoroughly researching each fish species' needs before introducing them to your aquarium. 

 Freight Charges: Please note that shipping or freight charges are non-refundable under all circumstances. We hope this guide makes our refund and guarantee process more understandable. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please contact us at [email protected]. We are always happy to assist. Thank you for choosing The Fish Room. Happy fishkeeping! 

All our fish are quarantined on arrival for two weeks. During this time, we treat any health issues that may occur during transport and ensure each fish is eating well and looking healthy. All fish are treated with Flubendazole before finally going on sale.