Arched Cory (Corydoras arcuatus)

Corydoras arcuatus, commonly known as the Skunk Cory, is immediately recognisable by its distinctive clean, smoothly arching black stripe that originates at the snout, curves over the eye, and runs along the dorsal ridge to the tail base — a marking so distinctive that it earns this catfish its evocative common name. Native to the Peruvian Amazon and the Solimoes River in Brazil, it prefers soft, slightly acidic water and fine sandy substrate, though it is generally tolerant and adapts reasonably well to a range of conditions if water quality is maintained. Like all Corydoras, it is a schooling species that thrives in groups of at least six, where it displays active, confident foraging behaviour along the substrate throughout the day.

Keep in groups of 6+ on a fine sandy substrate to protect the delicate barbels that corydoras use for foraging. Feed a varied diet including sinking wafers, catfish tablets, micro worms, and bloodworms. Perform regular partial water changes. Compatible with a wide range of peaceful community fish. Avoid coarse gravel substrates that cause barbel erosion.