Skunk Cory | Corydoras arcuatus

Catfish / Callichthyidae / Skunk Cory

Profile: Skunk Cory, Arched Cory
Corydoras arcuatus Synonyms: None
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 of barbels are located on the upper jaw. The body color is grayish white to gray. A black stripe runs from its mouth, through the eye, along the upper part of the body, to the fish's caudal peduncle. The fins are white in color, also covered with spots.
Size/Length: To 2" (5 cm)
Similar species: Narcissus Cory ( Corydoras narcissus ), Rabaut's or Meyer's Cory (Corydoras rabauti )
H: Along banks of slow-moving rivers. South America; found near Tef", Brazil, in the Tef" and Amazon Rivers.
A: bottom
Aquarium: 20" (60 cm) or 10 gallons (38 L). As for other Corydoras species. See the genus description.
Water chemistry: pH 6.5-8 (7.2); 2-25 dH (10); 72-79°F (22-26°C)
FOOD: Live; aquatic insects, white worms, Tubifex , Brine Shrimp, insect larvae; tablets; flake
Social behavior: Follow suggestions for the genus description.
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. Easier to sex when viewed from above.
Breeding techniques: Not a prolific fish-only 20-30 eggs-are laid on plants. Spawning is initiated by the addition of cooler water. Follow recommendations for other Corydoras species.
Breeding potential: 7. This catfish is a fairly difficult to breed.
Remarks: This species is somewhat sensitive to bacteria infections, although a good filtration system and a regime of frequent partial water changes usually will eliminate these problems.
Difficulty of care: 4. A community catfish that is somewhat sensitive to infections.