Mosaic Corydoras

About

The Mosaic Corydoras (Corydoras haraldschultzi) is a mid-sized armored catfish from the river systems of Brazil and Bolivia, and one of the more distinctive members of a genus that currently counts over 150 valid species. Its patterning is worth noting: dark vermiculations and spots scattered across a lighter background on the head and predorsal area, which is the opposite arrangement to the closely related C. sterbai. An easy way to tell the two apart once you know what to look for. A longer snout and larger overall body size also set this species apart from its lookalike cousin. Like all callichthyid catfish, the body is protected by bony plates rather than scales, giving it that characteristic armored look. One quirk worth knowing about before you bring these home: the pectoral fin spines are sharp and potentially carry mild venomous secretions from glands at their base, so handle them with care when moving fish between tanks. In the aquarium, Mosaic Corydoras are genuinely peaceful and do best in groups of at least five or six. Lone individuals tend to be shy and reclusive. You will occasionally see them dart to the surface for a gulp of air, which is completely normal physiology rather than a sign of trouble. They are a long-lived species when kept well, so this is a commitment worth thinking about before purchase.