Bearded Corydoras (Scleromystax barbatus) Care Guide
Scleromystax barbatus is a subtropical armoured catfish from coastal south-eastern Brazil, reaching about 9-10 cm with bearded males.
Overview
Scleromystax barbatus is an armoured catfish of the family Callichthyidae, formerly classified as Corydoras barbatus. According to Seriously Fish it reaches 90-100 mm standard length and is the largest known member of the subfamily Corydoradinae. Males develop facial bristles, giving the species its common name of bearded corydoras.
Taxonomy
- Family: Callichthyidae
- Genus: Scleromystax
- Scientific name: Scleromystax barbatus
- Common synonym: Corydoras barbatus
Habitat
Seriously Fish records S. barbatus from tributaries of the coastal rios Guapi, Capivari and Inhomirim in south-eastern Brazil, between Rio de Janeiro and Santa Catarina, with a type locality near Angra dos Reis. It inhabits small flowing tributary streams and still ponds with sand or fine pebbles, often covered by mud.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 120 L
- Temperature: 18-24 °C (64-75 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 2-15 °dGH
- Group size: 6 or more individuals
- Lifespan: 5-10 years
Diet
Seriously Fish describes S. barbatus as a foraging omnivore. It accepts sinking dried foods alongside live and frozen varieties such as bloodworm and Tubifex. A soft sand substrate is recommended so the fish can forage naturally without damaging their barbels.
Compatibility
Seriously Fish notes that males are aggressively territorial towards one another and cannot be maintained together in smaller aquaria, but the species is otherwise peaceful. The KB record lists tetras, rasboras and Otocinclus as compatible, while aggressive cichlids are best avoided. Best kept on soft sand in groups of six or more.
Breeding
According to Seriously Fish, S. barbatus is an egg depositor. Spawning is typically triggered by cool water changes, and eggs incubate for about three to four days.