Robinae's Cory

Corydoras robineae is one of the most dramatic-looking members of the genus. Its caudal fin bears bold, alternating black-and-white vertical stripes — a pattern so distinctive that the fish is immediately recognisable even to non-specialists. The body itself is relatively plain: pale cream to silver with a faint stripe and scattered spots, but the tail fin entirely steals the show.

Native to the Rio Negro and upper Amazon drainage in Brazil, it inhabits soft, highly acidic blackwater systems over fine sand. Water pH can drop below 5.0 in parts of its natural range, though it adapts reasonably to slightly less extreme conditions in the aquarium. A blackwater setup with tannins from Indian almond leaves and driftwood is strongly recommended to produce the most confident and well-coloured fish.

C. robineae is a prized species that commands a higher price than most common cories. It is best kept in a group of six or more in a species-specific or Amazonian blackwater biotope setup. Feed varied, high-quality sinking foods and maintain excellent water quality — this is not a fish for neglected aquaria.

Water: Very soft and acidic, pH 5.5–7.0, temperature 23–27°C; blackwater conditions with tannins strongly recommended. Tank: 80 L with fine sand, dense leaf litter, and driftwood; subdued lighting to reduce stress and enhance colour. Feeding: High-quality sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, Daphnia, and Mysis; twice-daily feeding. Breeding: Achieved in soft, acidic blackwater conditions; eggs deposited on plants and glass; small clutches. Compatibility: Peaceful; best with other soft-water Amazonian species; avoid hard-water or boisterous tankmates.