Corydoras

Corydoras
Corydoras agassizii
Scientific classification
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Corydoras

Type species
Corydoras geoffroy
Lacépède, 1803

Corydoras is a genus of catfish in the family Callicthyidae. They are called corydoras or cory catfish. They are the most well-known callichthyids.

The emerald catfish is the largest Corydoras.

Species

This genus has 162 species. 161 are extant, while only one is extinct:

Corydoras revelatus

Extinct species

Habitat

Corydoras are generally found in a variety of freshwater environments, such as rivers, streams, and tributaries. They are native to slow-moving and almost still (but seldom stagnant) streams and small rivers of South America, where the water is shallow and very murky.

Description

Corydoras have a short body with a dorsal fin and forked tail. They have whiskers (more specifically, barbels) like all catfish. The "whiskers" help them detect food.

Aquarium use

Corydoras are popular and hardy aquarium fish. They are well-known for their vibrant colors and unique patterns. They are also famous for their peaceful behavior. The Corydoras is a wonderful fish to many home aquariums.

What it eats

In the wild

Corydoras in the wild feed on small aquatic invertebrates, like worms, crustaceans, and insect larvae.

Corydoras panda

Aquarium

Corydoras in an aquarium will eat live food like brine shrimp and others.

References

  1. "Handle those catfish with care! - Practical Fishkeeping". 13 June 2016.