Laser Corydoras

Corydoras sp. 'CW010'

Animalia›Chordata›Actinopterygii›Callichthyidae

📍 South America

The laser corydoras (orange laser or green laser depending on the variant) has a striking iridescent stripe running the length of the body. These undescribed species are highly sought after by corydoras enthusiasts and require soft, warm water.

Size2"

Min Tank15g

School6+

peaceful

Zonebottom

Care Guide

Diet

Laser corydoras are omnivorous bottom feeders that require sinking pellets and tablets as their staple diet. Supplement 2-3 times weekly with frozen foods such as bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp to promote color and health. Feed small amounts once daily, removing uneaten food after 2-3 hours to maintain water quality.

Behavior

These peaceful, schooling catfish are most active during dawn and dusk, spending much of their time sifting through substrate in search of food. They are social fish that should never be kept alone; they exhibit reduced stress and more natural behavior in groups of 6 or more. Laser corydoras are gentle community fish that rarely interact aggressively with tankmates, though they may occasionally uproot plants while foraging.

Breeding

Breeding laser corydoras in captivity is difficult and rarely achieved by hobbyists due to their undescribed status and specific environmental requirements. Successful breeding requires pristine water conditions, cooler temperatures (around 22°C), and frequent water changes to trigger spawning behavior. Fry are extremely small and require infusoria or liquid fry food for the first week before accepting microworms.

Tank Mates

Otocinclus

Similar size, peaceful temperament, and preference for soft acidic water make them ideal companions

excellent

Ember Tetra

Small, peaceful schooling fish that occupy mid-water column and share identical water parameter preferences

excellent

Panda Tetra

Peaceful community fish with compatible temperature and pH requirements

good

Red Cherry Shrimp

Peaceful invertebrates that share soft water preferences; may occasionally be eaten if very small

good

Amano Shrimp

Larger shrimp that are safe from predation and help maintain substrate cleanliness alongside corydoras

good

Anubias Nana

Hardy plant that won't be uprooted by foraging corydoras and thrives in soft, acidic water

excellent

Common Diseases

Barbel Erosion

Symptoms

Deterioration or loss of barbels; reduced feeding activity; visible damage to mouth area

Treatment

Improve water quality immediately, perform frequent water changes, and ensure substrate is smooth sand rather than sharp gravel. Add Indian almond leaves to lower pH and provide tannins

Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)

Symptoms

White spots on body and fins; increased scratching against substrate; labored breathing

Treatment

Raise temperature gradually to 28-30°C over 48 hours, maintain for 10 days, and perform daily water changes. Use aquarium salt at half the recommended dose due to corydoras sensitivity

Fin Rot

Symptoms

Frayed or deteriorating fins; discoloration at fin edges; lethargy

Treatment

Perform 50% water changes every 2-3 days, improve water quality, and treat with antibacterial medication if severe. Ensure adequate aeration and remove any sharp tank decorations

Bacterial Infection

Symptoms

Open sores or lesions on body; cloudy eyes; loss of appetite; color fading

Treatment

Isolate affected fish if possible, perform daily water changes, and treat with broad-spectrum antibiotic medication. Maintain pristine water conditions and ensure tank mates are not aggressive