Description
Osteogaster melanotaenia
The Green Gold Cory is an ideal species for peaceful, softwater community aquaria where a slightly cooler-than-average water temperature is maintained. The substrate should consist of soft sand in order to protect the delicate sensory barbels, with plenty of shady hiding spots provided amongst tangles of driftwood. Peat filtration and leaf litter will both help to acidify the water whilst giving it a natural tea-coloured appearance with the tannins that are released. Whilst plants are not a big feature of this species’ natural habitat, they may make the aquarium more aesthetically pleasing. Green Gold Corys are highly sociable and must be kept in groups of 5 or more. The aquarium should be well mature before this species is added and frequent partial water changes are a must, as they can be rather sensitive to elevated nitrate levels. Large shoals of small midwater “dither fish’ will encourage these somewhat shy fish out into view, but be sure that any tankmates are also happy at slightly lower temperatures before purchasing. Corydoras have the ability to breathe air intestinally, so a small gap should be left between the surface of the water and the cover slides in order for the fish to come up to the surface and take air in. They may do this numerous times per day.
