Tailspot Corydoras (Corydoras caudomaculatus) — 3-4cm

Overview

Tailspot Corydoras (Corydoras caudomaculatus) is a small, peaceful schooling catfish with a distinctive tail spot, ideal for planted community aquariums. Native to the Guaporé River basin in Bolivia and Brazil, this species is prized for its manageable size, peaceful nature, and constant bottom-dwelling activity. Now available for sale UK from Tropical Fish Co, this charming catfish is ideal for the community aquarium enthusiast.

Appearance

The Tailspot Corydoras typically reaches around 4 cm in total length, making it a small corydoras. The body is robust and armored, with a pale silver or beige base color. The most distinctive feature is the prominent dark spot on the caudal peduncle and base of the tail fin, which gives the species its "Tailspot" common name. The fins are delicate and transparent. Healthy specimens have bright, clear eyes and smooth, undamaged barbels and armor plates.

Natural Habitat

In the wild, Corydoras caudomaculatus is native to the Guaporé River basin in Bolivia and Brazil, where it inhabits slow to moderately flowing streams and tributaries. These waters are typically soft, warm, and slightly acidic, with sandy or muddy substrates and plenty of aquatic vegetation providing cover. Light levels are low due to the forest canopy and overhanging vegetation. The fish spend much of their time foraging on the substrate for small invertebrates and organic detritus.

Aquarium Setup

A well-planted aquarium of at least 60 litres is recommended for a small group of Tailspot Corydoras. Use a soft sandy substrate to protect their delicate barbels, and incorporate plenty of live plants, driftwood, smooth rocks, and leaf litter to provide cover and foraging opportunities. Ensure good filtration and gentle water movement to maintain high oxygen levels. Subdued lighting will help the fish settle and display their best natural behavior.

Feeding

The Tailspot Corydoras is an omnivore and thrives on a varied sinking diet. Offer quality corydoras pellets or wafers as a staple, supplemented with frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp, plus occasional small meaty foods. They also benefit from grazing on biofilm and microorganisms on surfaces. Feed once or twice daily in small amounts, ensuring food reaches the bottom.

Behaviour

This catfish is peaceful, active, and social, constantly on the move and best kept in a group of at least six individuals. When kept in proper numbers, the Tailspot Corydoras is confident and displays natural schooling behavior. They spend much of their time foraging on the substrate, and are most active during the day. Males may engage in courtship displays, but serious aggression is rare.

Tank Mates

The Tailspot Corydoras is suitable for a peaceful community aquarium with other small fish. Good tankmates include small peaceful tetras, rasboras, livebearers, other peaceful bottom-dwellers, and non-aggressive shrimp and snails. Avoid large predatory fish, aggressive cichlids, fin-nipping species, very large boisterous fish, and species that outcompete them aggressively for food.

Breeding

Breeding the Tailspot Corydoras is achievable with careful preparation. This species can be bred in captivity with a conditioned group, cooler water changes, and abundant live or frozen foods. Eggs are typically laid on glass, plants, or decor. Remove adults after spawning to prevent them from eating the eggs.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co is a leading UK aquatics specialist offering healthy, carefully selected catfish like the Tailspot Corydoras direct to your door. Every fish is quarantined, inspected, and dispatched with expert care to ensure it arrives in peak condition. With decades of experience, transparent pricing, and exceptional customer support, we make it easy to add peaceful, active species to your collection. Order online today and enjoy fast, reliable delivery across the UK.