Urucu Cory

Corydoras urucu is a rarely encountered species described from the Rio Urucu, a tributary of the Solimões (Amazon) River in Amazonas state, Brazil. It is characterised by fine dark spotting across the body with a more prominently arched lateral band that curves from the humeral region toward the caudal peduncle, and a pale cream to silver base colour.

The Rio Urucu is a remote, poorly collected black-water influenced tributary. Water in this system is very soft and acidic, rich in humic substances from decomposing organic material. Fish from such environments can be sensitive to elevated hardness and pH when first imported. Careful acclimatisation and a soft-water setup are essential for newly acquired specimens.

Once established, C. urucu is a rewarding fish for the advanced keeper — calm, long-lived, and genuinely rare. A blackwater biotope setup with Indian almond leaves, driftwood, fine sand, and subdued lighting will produce the most confident and attractively coloured fish. Feed high-quality sinking foods and frozen invertebrates.

Water: Soft and acidic, pH 5.8–7.0, temperature 23–27°C; very soft, tannin-rich blackwater conditions strongly preferred. Tank: 80 L with fine sand, Indian almond leaves, driftwood, and low lighting; blackwater biotope setup ideal. Feeding: Sinking micro-pellets, live or frozen bloodworm, Daphnia, and occasional Tubifex. Breeding: Very rarely achieved; extreme soft water and live food conditioning required. Compatibility: Peaceful; best in a quiet soft-water Amazonian biotope; avoid boisterous species.