Sterbai Cory

The Sterbai Cory is one of the most popular corydoras species due to its striking appearance and hardiness. Featuring a dark body covered in white spots on the head and orange fins, these beautiful bottom-dwellers are both attractive and functional. Native to Brazil, Sterbai Corys are slightly warmer-water corydoras that do well in standard tropical community tanks. They are active, peaceful, and should be kept in schools of 6 or more.

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

Sterbai Corys appreciate sand substrate and moderate temperatures.

Essential Setup:

• 20+ gallons
• Sand substrate (protect barbels)
• Plants and hiding spots
• Moderate filtration
• Temperature 72-79°F

Water Quality

• Temperature: 72-79°F (22-26°C) - warmer than some corys
• pH: 6.0-7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderate (3-12 dGH)
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <20 ppm

Feeding

Bottom-feeding omnivores:

• Sinking pellets or wafers
• Frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp
• Algae wafers
• Flake food that reaches bottom

Behavior & Compatibility

Peaceful and active:

• Schooling: Keep 6+ minimum
• Peaceful: Excellent community fish
• Active foragers: Always searching for food
• Warmer water: Better for tropical community tanks

Good Tank Mates:

• All peaceful community fish
• Tetras, rasboras, gouramis
• Discus (good temperature match)
• Angelfish

Distinctive Appearance

• Orange fins: Most striking feature
• Spotted head: White spots on dark background
• Sterba’s signature: Named after Dr. Sterba
• Active: Often the most visible corydoras

Breeding

Easier to breed than many corys:

• Trigger: Large cool water change
• T-position: Classic cory spawning
• Egg deposition: On glass, plants
• Fry care: Standard micro foods

Health Considerations

• Barbel health: Use sand substrate
• Temperature: Don’t let get too cold
• Water quality: Keep pristine

Tips for Success

• Sand substrate essential
• School of 6+ recommended
• Warmer temperatures than some other corys
• Active and entertaining to watch
• Good for discus or angelfish tanks