Corydoras sp. Huanta 3 - 3, (Corydoras sp. 'Huanta 3') — 3-3,5cm

Overview

The Corydoras catfish Corydoras sp. 'Huanta 3' is a small, peaceful, social armored catfish from South America. Available for sale UK through Tropical Fish Co, this charming bottom dweller thrives in groups and brings constant activity, curiosity, and personality to community aquariums. Ideal for keepers of all levels who appreciate the industrious, endearing nature of Corydoras species.

Appearance

Corydoras sp. 'Huanta 3' reaches just 3–3.5 cm in length and displays the classic stocky, armored body shape typical of the genus. Coloration and patterning vary among individuals but typically include shades of tan, brown, and cream with subtle markings. The barbels around the mouth are prominent and used to probe substrate for food. Fins are rounded, and the overall appearance is compact and robust.

Natural Habitat

This species originates from South America, with the exact locality unknown but likely the Huanta region of Peru, as suggested by the trade name. In the wild, Corydoras inhabit slow-moving streams, rivers, and flooded forest areas with soft, sandy or muddy substrates, dense vegetation, and leaf litter. They are social, gregarious fish that forage in groups, sifting through substrate for small invertebrates and organic matter.

Aquarium Setup

Provide a well-filtered aquarium of at least 40 litres with a soft sand substrate—essential to protect the catfish's delicate barbels. Decorate with smooth driftwood, rounded stones, and live plants to create hiding places and visual interest. Gentle filtration and moderate lighting suit this species well. Keep in groups of six or more to encourage natural behavior and reduce stress.

Water Parameters

Maintain stable, clean water between 20–24°C with a pH of 6.0–7.5. Regular partial water changes (20–30% weekly) and excellent filtration are essential to keep nitrate levels low and oxygen levels high. This species is sensitive to poor water quality and requires consistent maintenance. Avoid sudden parameter shifts and ensure the tank is fully cycled before introduction.

Feeding

Corydoras sp. 'Huanta 3' is an omnivorous micro-carnivore. Offer quality sinking corydoras pellets, frozen or live bloodworms, daphnia, brine shrimp, and other small meaty foods. Supplement occasionally with vegetable-based foods (algae wafers, blanched vegetables). Feed in the evening or after lights dim, as Corydoras are most active during low-light periods. Ensure food reaches the substrate and that the catfish are not outcompeted by faster tankmates.

Behaviour

This Corydoras is peaceful, social, and constantly active, spending its time foraging across the substrate, probing with its barbels, and occasionally darting to the surface for a gulp of air (a natural behavior for this genus). It is gregarious and thrives in groups, where individuals will often rest and forage together. Non-aggressive and entirely harmless to tankmates, Corydoras sp. 'Huanta 3' is a model community fish.

Tank Mates

Excellent companions include small peaceful tetras, rasboras, livebearers, dwarf gouramis, and other peaceful bottom-dwelling Corydoras. Avoid large aggressive cichlids, fin-nipping barbs, large predatory fish, very boisterous bottom dwellers, and aggressive territorial catfish. Choose tankmates that appreciate similar calm, well-maintained conditions.

Breeding

Breeding is similar to other Corydoras: condition with varied live/frozen foods, then trigger spawning with cooler, softer water changes. Eggs are usually laid on glass, plants, or spawning mops; adults may eat eggs, so remove eggs to a separate rearing tank if breeding is desired. Fry are tiny and require infusoria or liquid fry food initially, graduating to baby brine shrimp and finely crushed foods as they grow.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

At Tropical Fish Co UK, we supply healthy, acclimated Corydoras sp. 'Huanta 3' catfish carefully selected for size, health, and vitality. Every fish is quarantined, inspected, and conditioned before dispatch, ensuring you receive robust, active specimens ready to thrive in your aquarium. With expert care advice, secure packaging, and a commitment to quality, we make adding these delightful bottom dwellers to your tank simple and rewarding. Order today.