Corrientes Corydoras
Corydoras aurofrenatus
A compact armored catfish from Paraguay with distinctive flank markings and an unusual breathing trick.
About
A small armored catfish from the Paraguay River basin, Corydoras aurofrenatus spent time in the hobby circulating under the trade names C. sp. 'Corrientes' and CW005 before its identity was properly established. Like all corydoras, its body is sheathed in rows of bony plates rather than scales. The reason the broader family earned the nickname 'armored' or 'mailed' catfishes. This species is recognizable by two dark blotches on each side, one sitting below the adipose fin and another behind the head, along with dark striping on the dorsal and caudal fins. The upper lobe of the tail is noticeably longer than the lower, giving it a slightly rakish silhouette for such a small fish. One of the more interesting things about this genus is the ability to breathe atmospheric oxygen directly, using a modified section of intestine to process air gulped at the surface. Perfectly normal behavior that can look alarming if you haven't seen it before. Worth noting for anyone who nets or handles them: the stiffened pectoral spines can pierce skin, and the associated glands are thought to produce a mildly venomous secretion, so a little care goes a long way. A peaceful community fish and a forgiving choice for newer keepers, it does best kept in a group.
Similar species
Other fish you might consider
Good tank mates
Species that tend to coexist peacefully with Corrientes Corydoras
From the same region
Share the same natural habitat. Great for a biotope-themed tank
Frequently asked questions
- How big does the Corrientes Corydoras get?
- The Corrientes Corydoras reaches about 2–2.5" as an adult.
- What size tank does the Corrientes Corydoras need?
- A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended for the Corrientes Corydoras, with more room needed for a proper group.
- What water parameters does the Corrientes Corydoras need?
- The Corrientes Corydoras does best with a temperature of 72–81°F, a pH of 6–8, hardness around 2–25 dGH.
- Is the Corrientes Corydoras aggressive?
- The Corrientes Corydoras is generally peaceful and suits a community tank with similarly calm tankmates.
- What does the Corrientes Corydoras eat?
- The Corrientes Corydoras is an omnivore. It does well on a varied diet of quality flake or pellet plus occasional frozen or live foods.
- How long does the Corrientes Corydoras live?
- With good care, the Corrientes Corydoras typically lives 3-5 years.