Normal for my albino corys?

[squirrelgoddess]

I have two albino corydoras in a 10 gallon tank, and I've noticed that they occasionally dart to the surface and then immediately back down to the bottom. They don't do it often, and they don't otherwise seem stressed or uncomfortable; they do their Cory thing, snuffling about the bottom, and even swim along the sides of the tank looking at their reflections. They seem pretty happy. I also have a sword and a female danio in the tank (her mate is in quarantine at the moment; see my signature) who seem happy as well.

Seem like a problem, or do we have normal Cory behavior and a paranoid lady on our hands?

 

[depthC]

This is normal cory behavior nothing to be worried about. My corys do everything you just mentioned also so I'd say your corys are very healthy and happy.

.dc

 

[squirrelgoddess]

Thanks a lot! They're great little fish.

 

[Fishery]

I suspect that activity that your witnessing is a natural burst to the surface to get some air.

 

[BobK]

Cory's have the ability to absorb oxygen through their intestines. Most, if not all, types of cory's will go to the surface periodically to gulp air. I think this also has an effect on their swim bladder but I know for sure they absorb the oxygen through their gut. I think this gives them the ability to live water with lower oxygen levels.

 

[squirrelgoddess]

So because the intestines provide an extra means of absorbing oxygen, they are able to live in water with lower oxygen levels? That's fascinating, whether I read it right or not...

 

[TommyR]

As the others already said, it's normal. I LOVE cories! Fun fish! I have 6, 4 albinos, 1 bronze and one spotted type.

Tom

 

[squirrelgoddess]

They're so great... I have two, Cory and Dora, at the moment (lame names, I know--- but I couldn't resist!) How many do you think could stay happy in a 10 gallon tank? I know they like to be in groups, and at the moment I just have a sword and a danio in there (both are awaiting new buddies to school with until I'm done medicating the tank).

 

[TommyR]

Well, I have 6 in my 10g with 6 Harliquin Rasboras and everyone gets along great! 4 albinos, 1 bronze and 1 spotted. The bronze LOVE swimming with the Rasboras.

Tom