The Melini Bandit Cory (Corydoras melini) is a small, peaceful freshwater catfish known for its striking black "bandit" markings and active yet gentle nature. Native to the blackwater streams and tributaries of the Amazon Basin in Colombia and Brazil, this species thrives in soft, slow-moving waters with sandy or fine gravel substrates.
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A Name That Matches Its Distinctive Look
The "Bandit" name comes from its bold black stripe, which runs from its dorsal fin down through its tail, creating a masked appearance similar to a bandit’s disguise. This pattern makes it easily recognizable and highly sought after by aquarists.
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Growth and Tank Requirements
Melini Bandit Corys remain relatively small, reaching around 2.5 inches in length. Due to their social nature, they should always be kept in groups of at least 5-6 individuals. A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended, with larger tanks (30+ gallons) providing more space for active schooling behavior. Their tank should include fine sand or smooth gravel, along with driftwood and plants to mimic their natural habitat and protect their sensitive barbels.
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Care and Water Parameters
These Corydoras thrive in temperatures between 72-78°F, with a pH range of 6.0-7.5 and soft to moderately hard water. They require good filtration and stable water conditions, but strong currents should be avoided. Regular water changes help maintain their health and prevent stress-related issues.
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Diet and Feeding
Melini Bandit Corys are omnivores that enjoy a varied diet. They should be fed high-quality sinking pellets, algae wafers, and frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp. Although they help clean up leftover food, they should not be relied on as scavengers alone—regular feeding is essential for their well-being.
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Unique Behaviors
These Corydoras are incredibly social and playful, often seen scurrying along the substrate in synchronized groups. They are also known for their "wiggling" swimming motion and occasional "darting" to the surface to gulp air—a natural behavior due to their ability to breathe atmospheric oxygen.
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Please note that these are general guidelines, and for more accurate values, we encourage you to contact Living Aquarium by phone or in person. Within store hours, our team of experts are always happy to answer any questions you may have and provide personalized guidance on care.