Care
Like all of its kin, this fish is best kept on a soft sand substrate where it can root around and forage without risk to its barbels which can be damaged by abrasion and bacterial infections from the accumulated waste that often builds up in coarse gravel. Filtration should be efficient with areas of moderate water movement and a decent level of oxygenation. Regular maintenance, including frequent partial water changes, should be carried out in order to keep these fish in good condition. Provide plenty of shady areas amongst driftwood, rocks, and areas of dense planting. As a social species, they should be kept in groups of 5 or more. Other peaceful species such as some of the smaller pencilfish, tetra, and rasboras make ideal tankmates, and their presence as dither fish in midwater will encourage the Corydoras out into view more often.
This species is imported as Bicolor Cory, but the real H. bicolor is a rarely-seen fish from Suriname. 'New panda' is the other common name attached to this fish and it may be that when it gets scientifically described, it gains a new common name to match. The very similar Colombian CW049 has a diamond-shaped body blotch.
Feeding
Sinking catfish pellets/granules/tablets, flake, and frozen foods such as bloodworm, white mosquito larvae, vitamin-enriched brineshrimp etc. Will also relish livefoods.
Breeding
Some Corydoras can be challenging to breed and are often prompted by cues that are absent in the average set up. Mature pairs may be triggered into spawning by performing a large, slightly cooler water change. The pair will adopt the classic ‘T position’ where the male fertilises the eggs that are held between the female’s pelvic fins. The adhesive eggs will then be deposited onto plants, décor, or the sides of the aquarium etc and the process repeated. The eggs generally take 4-5 days to hatch after which time the tiny fry should be offered finely powdered first foods. A few days later they will be able to take newly hatched brineshrimp. To avoid predation and ensure a higher success rate, many fishkeepers move the parents to another aquarium after the eggs have all been deposited.
