Corydoras are egg-scatterers that breed readily in well-maintained aquariums. Condition a group (ideally 2-3 males per female) with high-protein live and frozen foods for several weeks. Then perform a large water change (50%) with cooler water – this mimics the rainy season temperature drop that triggers spawning in the wild. Within 24 hours, fish often enter T-position spawning behaviour. Females pick up sperm in their mouths and release fertilised eggs on cleaned glass or plant leaves. Remove adults after spawning as they may eat eggs. Eggs hatch in 3-5 days at 24-26C. Feed newly hatched fry on infusoria or commercial fry food, then baby brine shrimp as they grow. Related fish: Corydoras Catfish. Related plants: Java Moss, Java Fern (egg deposition surfaces and fry cover).
