What is a Green Cory?
Everything about the green cory catfish, better known as the emerald catfish, makes it both beautiful and popular. This tropical fish has found a home in popular aquariums throughout the world thanks to its astounding beauty, and it continues to increase in popularity.
Origin
The emerald catfish is originally from the Amazon region of South America and can still be found in abundance in the same geographical location.
In Nature
These fish are known to inhabit shallow rivers, streams, and ponds with little to no current. They can survive in marshy areas, but often prefer a shallow pond of clean water. Most of the emerald catfish are still found in the South American region.
Color
This beautiful freshwater fish gets its name from its amazing emerald green color. Delicate hues of pink or pinkish-red can often be detected when watching the green cory catfish swim through the water. These only enhance the beauty that is already there.
Can You Have Just One?
Most people that are fascinated by these fish find themselves wondering if it is a good idea to own just one emerald catfish. While a fish will live in a tank by itself, it will not be happy. Instead, owners are advised to purchase at least five of these fish. They are social creatures and will be both happy and healthy when they are kept in a school of fish.
Size of a Green Cory Catfish
These fish are known for their tiny size. Most of these catfish will only grow to approximately 3 inches when they are kept in captivity. Their bite-size makes it easy for fish owners to keep them in a smaller tank.
Need Oxygen from Air and Water
Owners of cory catfish often discover that their fish enjoy floating on the top of the tank. This is because they have an organ that requires them to enjoy oxygen from the air as well as the water. It is important to make sure that the emerald catfish have access to both for them to survive.
Lifespan
When these freshwater fish are both happy and healthy, they will enjoy a life of approximately five years in captivity. There are reports of emerald catfish living much longer, such as eight years, but this is not the average lifespan for them.
Effective Bottom Feeders
Cory catfish are known for feeding at the bottom of the tank. They will pick up bits of food left behind by other fish, enjoy a snack of some algae and help owners keep their tank clean. A filter is still needed, however.
Peaceful
Emerald catfish are best known by hobbyists for their easy-going nature. These are peaceful fish that get their food by sucking up fish food and algae. They will not bite at other fish and tend to stay out of the way of faster, more aggressive fish. These beautiful fish will also not eat smaller fish than them when they are hungry. Instead, they will remain nice and peaceful.
Emerald catfish are a tropical fish that have a place in every aquarium. Their peaceful nature, long life span and affordable price make them instantly appeal to any hobbyist.
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