Shy Cory

About

Known in the hobby as the 'shy cory', Corydoras gracilis is a small, peaceful catfish from the middle and lower Amazon basin that rarely grows much beyond an inch and a half. It belongs to the armoured catfish family Callichthyidae, meaning its body is protected by rows of bony plates rather than conventional scales. A feature shared across the whole Corydoras clan. What sets this species apart visually is a clean, dark arched stripe running along the upper flank from the tip of the snout all the way to the base of the upper caudal-fin rays, sitting against a pale body. A handful of close relatives share a similar look, but in C. gracilis that stripe stops right at the upper caudal base, which is the quickest way to confirm your ID. Like all corys, it has stiffened pectoral spines that can pierce skin and are thought to carry mild secretions, so handle with care during net transfers. One genuinely fascinating trait is its ability to gulp atmospheric air at the surface, using a modified intestine to extract oxygen. Handy in the low-oxygen backwaters it calls home. Keep a group of at least six to see natural behavior, as lone individuals tend to stay hidden. A solid, forgiving choice for beginners who want an active, sociable bottom dweller.