Corydoras melini
Common names: False Bandit Cory, Melini Corydoras
 
Corydoras melini is a peaceful South American catfish known for its distinctive diagonal black stripe running from the dorsal fin toward the tail—similar to Corydoras metae, but slimmer and cleaner in pattern. They are highly social bottom-dwellers that thrive in groups and make an excellent addition to planted community aquariums.
 
Care Sheet
Scientific Name
Corydoras melini
Adult Size
5–6 cm (2–2.5 inches)
Lifespan
5–7 years, longer with excellent care
 
Temperament
Peaceful, social, schooling
Best kept in groups of 6+, ideally 10+
 
Tank Size
Minimum 70 L (20 gallons) for a proper group
100 L+ for larger communities
 
Water Parameters
Native to soft, clean Amazon tributaries:
Temperature: 22–26°C
pH: 6.0–7.4
Hardness: Soft (1–10 dGH)
Flow: Gentle to moderate
Oxygen: Well-oxygenated water preferred
Avoid heat above 27°C for long periods.
 
Diet
Omnivorous bottom-feeder
Offer a variety of:
High-quality sinking wafers & micro-pellets
Frozen foods: bloodworms, daphnia, brine shrimp
Live foods when possible
Blanched veg (zucchini, spinach) occasionally
Important: They do not survive on “leftover food” alone—supplement their diet daily.
 
Tank Setup
Substrate: Sand is best (protects whiskers); smooth fine gravel acceptable
Plants: Ideal for shaded resting spaces
Decor: Driftwood, leaf litter, smooth stones
Lighting: Low to moderate
Filtration: Gentle flow with clean, stable water
Ensure no sharp edges—Corydoras barbels are delicate.
 
Behaviour
Active, peaceful shoaling catfish
Constantly forage together
Do well with:
Tetras
Rasboras
Apistogramma (peaceful species)
Other Corydoras
Small gourami
Livebearers (in soft water-adapted setups)
Avoid aggressive or bottom-territorial species.
 
Breeding
Possible but moderately difficult:
Use cooler-water triggers (simulate rainy season)
Provide smooth spawning surfaces
Eggs are usually placed on glass or plant leaves
Remove adults or eggs to prevent predation
Feed fry:
Infusoria
Micro-worms
Baby brine shrimp (from day 3–4)
A mature, clean tank improves fry success.