Corydoras aeneus (Albino morph) — Albino Corydoras
Family: Callichthyidae
Origin: Selectively bred from wild C. aeneus populations native to South America (primarily Venezuela, Colombia, Peru)
Size: Up to 7 cm (2.75 inches)
Lifespan: 5–10 years
Natural Habitat
Environment: Still or slow-moving waters with sandy or muddy bottoms, often in floodplains and forest streams
Water Conditions: Soft to moderately hard, typically warm and oxygen-rich
Temperature Range: 22–28°C (72–82°F)
Physical Description
Body Shape: Stocky and rounded with a short snout
Coloration:
Pale pink to creamy white body due to lack of pigmentation
Red or pink eyes (true albinism)
Subtle iridescent sheen under light
Fins: Translucent to lightly pigmented
Note: The Albino Corydoras is a long-established captive-bred variant of the Bronze Cory (C. aeneus) and not a separate species.
Aquarium Care
Tank Size: Minimum 60 litres (15 gallons) for a group
Water Parameters:
pH: 6.0–7.5
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)
Water Flow: Low to moderate
Substrate: Fine sand is ideal to protect sensitive barbels
Décor: Plants, driftwood, caves, and gentle lighting
Filtration: Clean, stable water with good oxygenation
Diet
Type: Omnivorous bottom-feeder
Preferred Foods:
Sinking pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia
Algae wafers and occasional vegetable matter
Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times per day
Behavior & Tank Mates
Temperament:
Peaceful, active, and sociable
Must be kept in groups of 5 or more to reduce stress
Compatible Tank Mates:
Tetras, rasboras, livebearers, dwarf cichlids, peaceful gouramis
Avoid fin-nippers and large aggressive fish
Behavior Notes:
Bottom-dweller, often seen foraging in groups
Will gulp air from the surface when needed
Breeding
Spawning Method: Egg layer
Breeding Conditions:
Cooler water changes and increased feeding help trigger spawning
Eggs laid on glass or broad-leaf plants
Fry Care:
Eggs hatch in 3–5 days
Fry require tiny foods like infusoria or powdered fry feed
Conservation Status
IUCN Status: Not Evaluated (captive morph of a common species)
Notes: Extremely hardy and beginner-friendly; their unique appearance and gentle nature make them a staple in community aquariums