Melini Cory (Hoplisoma melini)

A strikingly marked medium-growing species of Cory, the Melini or False Bandit Cory is widespread throughout the Rio Negro, Orinoco, and Meta in Brazil and Colombia where it is found in large shoals in a variety of shallow water habitats. This species is one of several very similar looking Corydoras and is sometimes confused with H. metae, but the Melini Cory’s stripe extends down into the tail. Like most Corys, they are peaceful, hardy, and best kept in groups due to their schooling nature.  An excellent community aquarium fish, they will do well with nearly any non-aggressive tankmates.