Bandit Cory Catfish (Corydoras metae) - Tank Bred

* For the safety of our animals, we now ship live fish exclusively via UPS Next Day Air.  If your order contains this item, you will only see UPS Next Day Air as a shipping option during checkout *   The Bandit Cory Catfish is certainly one of the most adorable and peaceful bottom-dwelling fish in the aquarium hobby!   The Bandit Cory Catfish (Corydoras metae) is a beloved Corydoras species that is known for the vertical black stripe across its eyes as well as the black streak across its back. Tank-bred specimens are somewhat uncommon in the aquarium hobby. This species is a very animated, distinctively marked schooling fish that is perfect for the nano, community, and planted aquarium.   The Bandit Cory Catfish is a very peaceful schooling fish that is compatible with most nano aquarium animals, including dwarf cichlids and angelfish. It might prey on some smaller dwarf shrimp, but is safe with larger shrimp and most other peaceful ornamental invertebrates. It is a classic scavenger and will inhabit and feed at the aquarium floor, which should be comprised of sand or smooth gravel. Very coarse substrate can damage its delicate barbels and underbelly, so it should be kept in an aquarium with sand or very smooth gravel substrate. This fish is otherwise undemanding as it will accept most dry,frozen, and live foods. It is adaptable to most tropical freshwater conditions as long as standard regular maintenance is performed and sudden changes are avoided. While it is a scavenger, care must be taken to ensure that it receives a good variety of high quality foods and is not simply expected to eat leftover food that other fish do not eat.   What We Like About This Fish: Very peaceful and hardy addition to almost any aquarium   Compatible with most adult dwarf shrimp and other invertebrates Thrives in schools in well-planted aquaria Distinctive coloration and group schooling behavior. Uncommon tank-bred fish   RECOMMENDED TANK PARAMETERS: Temperature:  68° - 79° F (20° - 26° C) pH:  5.5 - 7.5.  Softer water is preferred, but this fish is somewhat flexible as long as sudden changes are avoided. KH:  0 - 15 dKH Minimum tank size:  15 gallons for a school of 6   CARE GUIDELINES:  Diet:  High-quality dry foods as well as live and frozen meaty foods. Variety is essential. Social behavior:  Peaceful; requires a school of 6 or more to thrive.  Origin:  Tank-Bred, but indigenous to Colombia and Venezuela Average adult size:  1.6 - 2 inches (4 - 5 cm) Average purchase size:  1 inch (2.5 cm)   All Aquatic Arts brand plants and animals come with a 100% live arrival guarantee, plus free email support!