Skunk Corydoras (Corydoras arcuatus) Care Guide
Corydoras arcuatus is a streamlined armoured catfish of the western Amazon, marked by a single black arched stripe from snout to tail.
Overview
Corydoras arcuatus, the skunk cory, is an armoured catfish of the family Callichthyidae (subfamily Corydoradinae) described by Elwin in 1938. It is recognised by a single black arched stripe running from the snout, over the eye and along the back to the tail base. Like other corys it has spiny fins. Some specimens sold in the trade as "skunk cory" actually belong to the closely similar Hoplisoma granti, with which it was confused until 2019.
Taxonomy
- Family: Callichthyidae
- Genus: Corydoras
- Scientific name: Corydoras arcuatus
- Described by: Elwin, 1938
Habitat
The species is restricted to the western Amazon basin, in small blackwater or clearwater streams of the middle Juruá and Javari river basins and near Leticia, across Brazil, Peru and Colombia. It is a demersal freshwater fish.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 80 L
- Temperature: 22-26 °C (72-79 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 2-12 °dGH
- School size: 6 or more individuals
- Lifespan: 5-10 years
Diet
An omnivore with a low trophic level (around 2.9), it forages on the bottom for small invertebrates and detritus. In aquaria it accepts sinking prepared foods plus live and frozen items.
Compatibility
An active, peaceful bottom dweller best kept in groups of six or more on soft substrate. Suitable companions include Neon Tetra, hatchetfish and Otocinclus; cichlids should generally be avoided.
Breeding
Corydoras arcuatus is an egg-depositor that produces roughly 100 eggs per spawning cycle, the female holding 2-4 eggs between her pelvic fins during fertilisation. Breeding difficulty is considered intermediate.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern.