Bearded corydoras

The bearded corydoras is an armored catfish (family Callichthyidae) from coastal river drainages of southeastern Brazil. Larger and more elongated than typical Corydoras, mature males develop bristly cheek odontodes, giving a bearded look, and show attractive dark marbling over a golden-brown body with striking finnage. It is a peaceful, sociable bottom-dweller best kept in a group, where males may spar harmlessly to display. Unlike many tropical cories, it prefers cooler, well-oxygenated water reflecting its subtropical origin, and overly warm tanks stress it. A soft sand substrate protects its barbels and allows natural foraging. It eats sinking foods, frozen bloodworms, and other small invertebrates. Cool, clean water changes can trigger spawning, after which eggs are laid on surfaces and left unguarded. Its temperature needs make it best for keepers who can provide a cooler setup.