Bearded Catfish | Corydoras barbatus
Catfish / Callichthyidae / Bearded Catfish
Profile: Giant Cory, Barbatus Catfish, Bearded Catfish, Banded Catfish, Filigree Cory
Corydoras barbatus Synonyms: Callichthys barbatus, Corydoras eigenmanni, C. kronei, Scleromystax barbatus, S. kronei
Physical description: The body is stocky and deep, with an arched back. Two rows of bony plates make up each side of the fish. The upper has 21-23 plates, while the lower 19-21. Two pairs are located on the upper jaw. The base body color is light brown to beige with an overlaying hodgepodge of various patterns and hues of brown. The belly is white and the fins are spotted. Several different color variations exist.
Size/Length: To 5" (13 cm)
Similar species: Young C. barbatus resemble the Long-fin Cory (Corydoras macropterus ).
H: South America; in small coastal mountain rivers and creeks from Rio de Janerio to Sao Paulo, Brazil
A: bottom
Aquarium: 28" (70 cm) or 20 gallons (75 L). As for other Corydoras species. See the genus description.
Water chemistry: pH 5.8-7.5 (6.6); 2-15 dH (7); 68-75°F (20-24°C)
FOOD: Live; aquatic insects, white worms, Tubifex , Brine Shrimp, insect larvae; tablets; flake
Social behavior: A peaceful, undemanding fish, ideal for community tanks with small to large fish. Likes to shoal.
Social behavior: Smaller tetras, Discus, Dwarf Cichlids, Livebearers, Gouramis, Barbs, Danios, Killifish
Suggested companions: The females are larger and plumper behind their pectoral fins, and less colorful. Males with maturity, develop cheek bristles.
Breeding techniques: To breed this species, a school of 7-10 should be kept. Prior to spawning, frequent partial water changes should be preformed and the group should be conditioned with insect larvae. Spawning is initiated by the addition of cooler water (66-70°F). Eggs are laid high on the glass wall of the aquarium, usually in groups of 5-7. A total of 60 eggs are laid. Follow recommendations for other Corydoras species.
Breeding potential: 6. This catfish is not especially difficult to breed.
Remarks: Largest of the known Corydoras species. Sensitive to water pollutants. There are several regional variations, some of which may be separate, distinct species.
Difficulty of care: 3. A hardy fish recommended for most community tanks.