Sarah Hamade*
Objective: Corydoras can self-poison when threatened, a common feature of many species of Corys, which enables them to deliver poisonous mucus from their gills causing surrounding fish to expeditiously die. The process of self-poisoning causes tremendous stress on the Corydoras, often resulting in death. This study focuses on the process of self-poisoning and insight into its reversal in Bronze and Albino Corydoras. Methods: In this study, a hospital tank is filled with 10 gallons (37.9 L) of water with 1 teaspoon of garlic extract mixed in. The water has a pH ranging from 5.8-7.0, a temperature range of 72ºF -79ºF (22ºC -26ºC), and calcium and magnesium levels between 2 dGH -30 dGH. The Corydoras are then submerged for 60-180 seconds depending on the time of reaction while receiving compressions. Results: Every Corydoras that underwent the procedure was able to regain body function within 120 s-180 s. The Bronze Corydoras (144 s) were able to make a quicker recovery compared to the Albino Corydoras (165 s). The increase in pH, calcium, and magnesium level combined with a decrease in the temperature of the water noted between procedures can be attributed to the toxins released from the Corydoras. Conclusion: Both the Bronze and Albino Corydoras were able to make a miraculous recovery from self-poisoning using garlic baths. Knowing that there is a reversal for this self-defense mechanism is groundbreaking and reassuring to marine biologists and aquarium hobbyists. Having the ability to reverse self-poisoning opens the door to save the lives of many Corydoras.
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