Black Fin Corydoras (Corydoras leucomelas)

The Black Fin Corydoras (Corydoras leucomelas) is a striking and active bottom-dwelling catfish known for its crisp contrast pattern — featuring a light body accented by bold black dorsal and tail markings. Often referred to as a “false bandit” style Cory, this species brings both visual contrast and constant movement to the lower levels of your aquarium.
At Magnolia Aquatics Company, our Black Fin Corydoras are home-raised in our fishroom, producing hardy, well-conditioned fish that are already thriving in aquarium environments. These are not stressed imports — they are active, social, and feeding confidently from day one.
🏅 Premium Home-Raised Stock
• Bred & raised in our home fishroom
• Healthy, active, and consistently feeding
• Strong patterning and clean markings
• Quality over quantity — always
About the Species
Native to South America, Corydoras leucomelas is a peaceful, social species that naturally lives in groups. Like other Corydoras, they spend their time foraging along the substrate, constantly moving and interacting with one another.
Their unique patterning gives them a more high-contrast, eye-catching look compared to standard Cory species, making them stand out even more when kept in groups.
Color, Size & Presence
Black Fin Corydoras feature a clean, light body contrasted by bold dark markings on the dorsal fin and tail.
• Adult Size: 2–2.5 inches
• Body Type: Compact, armored catfish
• Coloration: Light body with black dorsal and tail accents
• Visual Impact: High in groups — excellent contrast fish
👉 Individually subtle, but in a group they create a sharp, high-contrast display across the bottom of the tank.
Behavior & Compatibility
Black Fin Corydoras are extremely peaceful and thrive in social groups.
• Completely peaceful — ideal for community tanks
• Strong shoaling behavior — prefer groups
• Active during the day and highly visible
• Compatible with most non-aggressive species
They are constantly moving, making them one of the most engaging bottom dwellers you can keep.
Tank Requirements
These fish are hardy but perform best in a properly set up environment:
• Temperature: 72–78°F
• pH Range: 6.0–7.5
• Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum
• Substrate: Sand or smooth substrate recommended
• Environment: Plants, driftwood, and open bottom space
A soft substrate is important to protect their barbels as they forage.
Feeding
Black Fin Corydoras are eager eaters and should be fed directly, not left to rely on leftovers.
• Sinking pellets and wafers
• Frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp)
• Occasional live foods
They quickly learn feeding routines and stay active throughout the day.
Breeding Overview
Like many Corydoras species, Black Fin Corydoras can breed in aquariums under the right conditions.
• Egg layers — often triggered by water changes
• Eggs are placed on glass, plants, or surfaces
• No parental care — eggs can be removed
• Fry are manageable and grow steadily
This makes them a great option for hobbyists looking to expand into breeding.
Why Buy From Magnolia Aquatics Company?
We focus on raising fish the right way — not pushing volume.
Our Black Fin Corydoras are:
• Raised in stable, clean environments
• Properly fed and conditioned
• Selected for health, activity, and pattern quality
When they arrive, they are ready to thrive — not recover.
Black Fin Corydoras bring contrast, movement, and constant activity to the bottom of your aquarium — turning an often overlooked space into one of the most visually engaging parts of the tank.
Magnolia Aquatics Company — Where quality comes from home.