Corydoras napoensis — Napo Corydoras
Family: Callichthyidae
Origin: Napo River basin, Ecuador (Upper Amazon tributaries)
Size: Up to 4.5 cm (1.75 inches)
Lifespan: 5–8 years
 
Natural Habitat
Environment: Shallow, slow-flowing rainforest streams and floodplain pools
Water Conditions: Soft, acidic to neutral water with sandy or muddy substrates and abundant leaf litter
Temperature Range: 22–26°C (72–79°F)
 
Physical Description
Body Shape: Small and compact with the typical Corydoras arched back
Coloration:
Pale beige to light golden body
Fine speckling over the head and flanks
Dark, often broken mid-lateral stripe from snout to caudal peduncle
Fins: Clear to lightly marked
Note: The patterning is subtle and can resemble some spotted Corydoras, but C. napoensis remains smaller and more delicate-looking.
 
Aquarium Care
Tank Size: Minimum 40 litres (10 gallons) for a small group
Water Parameters:
pH: 6.0–7.2
Hardness: Soft to moderately soft
Temperature: 22–26°C (72–79°F)
Water Flow: Gentle
Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel to protect delicate barbels
Décor: Driftwood, leaf litter, live plants, and shaded hiding areas
Filtration: Gentle, well-oxygenated, and clean water
 
Diet
Type: Omnivorous bottom-dweller
Preferred Foods:
Micropellets, finely crushed sinking foods
Bloodworms, daphnia, brine shrimp
Algae wafers and blanched vegetables occasionally
Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times daily
 
Behavior & Tank Mates
Temperament:
Peaceful, shy, and social; best kept in groups of 5 or more
Often found foraging together at the bottom
Compatible Tank Mates:
Small, peaceful species like tetras, rasboras, and dwarf cichlids
Avoid large or aggressive fish
Behavior Notes:
May startle easily; appreciates shaded areas and low light
 
Breeding
Spawning Method: Egg scatterer
Breeding Conditions:
Triggered by cooler water changes and protein-rich diet
Eggs usually deposited on glass or plant surfaces
Fry Care:
Eggs hatch in 3–4 days
Start fry on infusoria or powdered fry foods
 
Conservation Status
IUCN Status: Not Evaluated
Notes: A small, subtly patterned Corydoras species that thrives in peaceful, softwater aquariums; well-suited for biotope setups with leaf litter and driftwood