Bearded Banded Corydoras Barbatus 4cm Catfish

Overview

The Bearded or Banded Cory, Scleromystax barbatus, is a large, elongated cory with a marbled gold and black pattern; males grow bristly cheek odontodes and a pale forehead stripe. It comes from cool coastal streams in south-eastern Brazil. It suits keepers of unheated or cool tanks who want a striking, unusual bottom dweller.

• Adult Size: Around 10 cm (4 in); females slightly larger
• Lifespan: 5–8 years

Origin

• Native to: Coastal river basins, south-eastern Brazil
• Habitat: Small flowing streams and ponds over sand or pebbles

Feeding

• Diet: Omnivorous, forages the substrate
• Preferred Foods: Sinking pellets, bloodworm, tubifex, brine shrimp, daphnia, catfish wafers
• Feeding Habits: Feed daily after lights dim; never rely on leftovers

Tank Mates

• Best with: Cool water tetras, danios, white cloud minnows, other Scleromystax
• Avoid: Warm water species, large aggressive fish, multiple males in small tanks

Aggression & Behaviour

• Temperament: Peaceful with other species
• Territoriality: Males are aggressively territorial towards each other

Experience Level

• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Challenges: Needs cool water; declines above 25°C

Water Parameters

• Water Type: Freshwater, soft to moderately hard, cool
• Temperature: 16–24°C (61–75°F)
• pH: 5.5–7.5
• Hardness: 1–12 dGH
• Flow: Moderate, well oxygenated
• Tank Size: Minimum 200 litres; 120 cm long for a group

Final Notes

Before buying, check your tank runs cool: this is a subtropical species that suffers in standard tropical temperatures. Keep one male with several females unless the tank is large, and always use a fine sand substrate to protect the barbels. Spawning is triggered by a large, cooler water change; adhesive eggs are laid on glass or plants and hatch in three to four days. A rewarding species for the cool water enthusiast.