Surinam Cory

Corydoras surinamensis is a moderately large Corydoras from the river systems of Suriname and adjacent Guiana Shield drainages. It has an attractive pattern of brown spots and irregular markings over a tan body, with the dorsal surface darker and the belly pale. Fins show faint spotting and the barbels are well developed for a substrate-foraging lifestyle.

As a Suriname species, it naturally experiences soft, slightly acidic to neutral water influenced by the ancient Guiana Shield geology. Water is typically stained with tannins from forest leaf fall, and substrates are predominantly fine sand and decomposed leaves. Replicating these conditions in the aquarium produces the healthiest and most vividly coloured fish.

C. surinamensis is seldom exported but appears periodically in the specialist trade. Its care is straightforward for an intermediate keeper: soft water, fine substrate, stable conditions, and a varied sinking diet. It is peaceful with all suitable tankmates and does best in a group of six or more.

Water: Soft and slightly acidic, pH 5.8–7.2, temperature 22–26°C; tannin-stained conditions ideal. Tank: 80 L with fine sand, leaf litter, and driftwood to replicate Guiana Shield lowland streams. Feeding: Sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, Daphnia, and occasional Repashy gel food. Breeding: Not commonly bred; soft water conditions and live food conditioning recommended. Compatibility: Peaceful; ideal for Suriname or Guiana Shield biotope setups.