Black-bellied Cory

Corydoras semiaquilus is a striking cory whose most notable feature is the intensely dark black colouration of the ventral surface, which fades upward into a paler, spotted dorsal region. This bold contrast is unusual in the genus and makes it immediately recognisable among experienced hobbyists. It is native to the upper Amazon basin in both Peru and western Brazil.

In the wild it inhabits slow-moving tributaries and flooded forest margins over fine sand and leaf litter. It is a deepwater-tolerant species compared to some of its relatives and adapts reasonably well to standard soft-water tropical aquarium conditions. However it does best in well-established, stable tanks with clean water and a deep fine-sand substrate.

C. semiaquilus is peaceful and social. A group of six or more is recommended to produce natural behaviour, and it will mix freely with tetras, small cichlids, and other peaceful community species. Feed a high-quality varied diet to maintain the intense melanistic ventral colouration.

Water: Soft to moderately hard, pH 6.0–7.0, temperature 23–27°C; excellent water quality essential. Tank: 80 L minimum with deep fine sand, driftwood, and subdued lighting to highlight body contrast. Feeding: Sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, Tubifex, and Mysis shrimp; regular varied feeding maintains colour. Breeding: Rarely achieved; typical cory protocol; cool water change and high-protein conditioning recommended. Compatibility: Peaceful with all non-aggressive community species; suits Amazonian biotope setups.