The Corydoras Gold Laser (Corydoras sp. "Gold Laser") is a stunning and relatively popular variety of Corydoras catfish known for its striking golden stripe and vibrant appearance. Here’s a closer look at this beautiful fish:

Appearance

• Coloration: The Gold Laser Corydoras is named for its distinctive, bright golden stripe that runs along its back from the snout to the base of the tail. The rest of the body is typically a light gray to silvery color, often with a greenish sheen that makes the gold stripe stand out even more.
• Size: Gold Laser Corydoras usually grow to about 2.5 to 3 inches (6 to 7.5 cm) in length, which is typical for many Corydoras species.

Behavior

• Temperament: Like other Corydoras, Gold Lasers are peaceful, social, and best kept in groups. They are bottom dwellers, often seen sifting through the substrate in search of food. They thrive in schools of at least 6 to 8 individuals, which helps them feel more secure and exhibit natural behaviors.
• Activity: They are active and enjoy exploring the tank, often displaying their colors more vibrantly when kept in a suitable environment.

Habitat and Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: A minimum of a 20-gallon (75 liters) aquarium is recommended for a small group. They appreciate having plenty of swimming space along the bottom of the tank.
• Water Conditions:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C).
  • pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.5-7.5.
  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water, with a general hardness (GH) of 2-12 dGH.
• Substrate: Soft, fine sand or smooth, small gravel is ideal to protect their delicate barbels, which they use to forage through the substrate.
• Decoration: Provide hiding places using driftwood, rocks, and plants to mimic their natural habitat and offer them security.

Diet

• Omnivorous: Gold Laser Corydoras are omnivores that feed on a variety of foods. Their diet should include high-quality sinking pellets, algae wafers, live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia, as well as blanched vegetables like spinach or zucchini.
• Feeding: Feed them small amounts twice daily, ensuring food reaches the bottom where they can easily find it.

Breeding

• Breeding Conditions: Breeding Gold Laser Corydoras can be done in captivity, and they generally follow the same breeding habits as other Corydoras. Spawning is often triggered by water changes that mimic the rainy season, slightly lowering the water temperature.
• Egg Laying: Females lay eggs on flat surfaces like broad plant leaves, tank glass, or decorations. After spawning, it's a good idea to separate the eggs from the parents to prevent them from being eaten.
• Hatching and Raising Fry: The eggs typically hatch within 3-5 days. The fry can be fed infusoria or commercial fry foods initially, moving on to baby brine shrimp and finely crushed flakes as they grow.

Tank Mates

• Compatibility: Gold Laser Corydoras are excellent tank mates for other peaceful, non-aggressive fish. Ideal companions include other Corydoras species, small tetras, rasboras, peaceful barbs, and other small community fish. Avoid keeping them with aggressive or large fish that may prey on them.

The Gold Laser Corydoras is a wonderful addition to community aquariums, adding a splash of color and lively behavior to the tank bottom. They are relatively easy to care for and get along well with a variety of tank mates, making them a favorite among both beginner and experienced aquarists.