The Black Venezuela Corydoras is a stunning and popular freshwater catfish known for its velvety, jet-black body and contrasting reddish-maroon fins. Despite the name, this is actually a captive-bred color variant—likely originating from Germany in the 1990s—and is technically a variation of Corydoras schultzei (or Corydoras aeneus).
Quick Care Guide
Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (75 liters) to accommodate their social nature.
Social Needs: They are schooling fish and must be kept in groups of at least 6 or more to feel secure.
Substrate: Use fine sand or very smooth gravel. Their delicate barbels (whiskers) can be damaged by sharp or coarse substrates.
Diet: Omnivorous scavengers. Provide a mix of high-quality sinking pellets, algae wafers, and treats like bloodworms or brine shrimp.
Water Parameters
Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C).
pH Level: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Hardness: 2–15 dKH.
Temperament & Tank Mates
They are exceptionally peaceful and spend most of their time foraging at the bottom.
Ideal Mates: Tetras, Rasboras, Guppies, Angelfish, and other Corydoras species.
Avoid: Large or aggressive fish like Oscars that might try to eat them, as Corys have sharp defensive spines that can harm predators.
