Prionotos Bearded Cory (Scleromystax prionotos) Care Guide
Scleromystax prionotos is a small armoured catfish from coastal river systems of south-eastern Brazil, reaching about 6-7 cm.
Overview
Scleromystax prionotos is an armoured catfish of the family Callichthyidae, also known as the mailed catfishes. According to Seriously Fish it reaches 55-65 mm standard length and is a facultative air breather, with an intestine adapted to oxygen-poor environments. It is closely related to the larger bearded cory S. barbatus.
Taxonomy
- Family: Callichthyidae
- Genus: Scleromystax
- Scientific name: Scleromystax prionotos
Habitat
Seriously Fish records S. prionotos from coastal river systems in the Brazilian states of Minas Gerais, Espírito Santo, Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, with a type locality at Lagoa Juparaná in the Rio Doce system, Espírito Santo. As a facultative air breather it occasionally rises to the surface to gulp air.
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. prionotos as a foraging omnivore accepting sinking dried foods as well as small live and frozen varieties such as chironomid larvae (bloodworm) and Tubifex. A soft sand substrate allows natural foraging without barbel damage.
Compatibility
Seriously Fish notes that the pectoral spines are capable of piercing human skin and may carry mildly toxic secretions, so the fish should be handled with care. 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.