Corydoras weitzmani, commonly known as the Zebra Cory, is a delightful addition to any freshwater aquarium. This small, bottom-dwelling catfish is native to South America and is cherished for its striking appearance and lively behavior. With its distinctive black and white stripes resembling a zebra, this fish not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your tank but also contributes to a dynamic community environment. Ideal for both beginners and experienced aquarists, Corydoras weitzmani is known for its peaceful nature and compatibility with a variety of tank mates.

Key Features:

• Unique Appearance: Corydoras weitzmani features a striking pattern of black and white stripes, making it visually appealing and an excellent choice for aquarists looking to create a lively display. They typically grow to about 2.5 inches in length, allowing them to fit comfortably in smaller tanks.
• Social Behavior: This species is social and prefers to be in groups, so it's recommended to keep them in schools of at least five or more. Their playful antics and interactions add a lively element to your aquarium.

Ideal Water Conditions:

• Temperature: 72°F to 78°F (22°C to 26°C)
• pH Level: Slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 and 7.5
• Water Hardness: 2 to 10 dGH (soft to moderately hard water)
• Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is ideal for a school of Corydoras weitzmani. A larger tank allows for more swimming space and better water quality.

Tank Setup:

• Aquascaping: Corydoras weitzmani thrive in well-planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots. Use smooth substrate like sand or fine gravel to protect their sensitive barbels. Add plants, driftwood, and rocks to create a natural environment that mimics their native habitat.
• Filtration: A reliable filtration system is essential to maintain water quality, but ensure the filter's current is not too strong, as Corydoras prefer calm waters.

Tank Mates:

• Compatible Species: Corydoras weitzmani is peaceful and makes excellent tank mates for a variety of community fish, including small tetras, rasboras, danios, and other peaceful bottom-dwellers like shrimp and snails.
• Avoid Aggression: Avoid keeping them with aggressive or larger fish, as this may cause stress or injury. Suitable tank mates should be of similar size and temperament to ensure a harmonious environment.

Feeding Habits:

• Diet: Corydoras weitzmani are omnivores and enjoy a varied diet. They will thrive on high-quality sinking pellets, flakes, and frozen or live foods like brine shrimp and bloodworms. They also benefit from the addition of vegetable matter, such as blanched spinach or zucchini.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed them small amounts 1-2 times a day, ensuring that food reaches the bottom of the tank. It’s crucial to avoid overfeeding, as uneaten food can degrade water quality.

Breeding Information:

• Breeding Setup: Breeding Corydoras weitzmani can be achieved in a separate breeding tank. Provide plenty of hiding spots and use spawning mops or flat surfaces for the female to lay eggs.
• Water Conditions for Breeding: Slightly cooler water temperatures (around 68°F to 72°F) can trigger spawning behavior, while frequent water changes can stimulate the breeding process.
• Fry Care: Once the eggs hatch, fry can be fed infusoria or finely crushed flakes until they are large enough to accept larger foods.

Care Tips:

• Regular Water Changes: Maintain optimal water quality by performing weekly water changes of 20-30%. This helps prevent ammonia and nitrite buildup, ensuring a healthy environment for your fish.
• Observation: Keep an eye on their behavior and health. Corydoras weitzmani are generally hardy, but watch for signs of stress or illness, such as rapid gill movement or loss of appetite.
• Tank Maintenance: Ensure the substrate is clean, as these fish tend to forage on the bottom for food. Regularly vacuum the substrate to remove uneaten food and waste.