The Albino Paleatus Cory is a pseudo-albino variety that was developed in the trade from the darker-bodied peppered cory Corydorus paleatus. It is a pinkish white in color with bright red eyes. It is very similar in appearance to the Albino Aeneus Cory, which was developed from the Bronze Corydoras Corydoras aeneus, however this variety tends to have a more orangish body.
The Corydorus are members of the Callichthyidae family of catfish. They have sharp spines in the dorsal, pectoral and adipose fins that contain a mild poison used to ward off fish that may harm them. The overall appearance has an armored look which gives them the common name "Armored Catfish." Although there are over 180 species of Corydoras, only about 50 are available to the hobby and about 10 are bred commercially.
Albino Cories are great fish for the beginning fish keeper. They are hardy little fish that are quite adaptable to varying water conditions. They are active during the day, hustling around scavenging bits of food from the bottom of the aquarium, which helps to keep it clean. They can make sounds with their pectoral fins and use a clicking sound during courtship and for communication.
Albino cories are well suited for a smaller aquarium because when full grown, adult males only reach 2.5 inches (7 cm) in length and the larger females just a little bit more. A minimum 10 gallon tank is suggested. Despite being quite active, these are very peaceful fish that enjoy the company of their own kind as well as other fish. To be happy they need to be in groups of at least 5 or more fish, and a school of these very active little fish will make the bottom of your tank come to life.
They are not often bred in home aquariums, but they will breed rather easily and it is very interesting to watch! The female will drop a few eggs and catch them with her ventral fins, carrying them about to deposit them here and there about the plants and decor in the aquarium.
