Short-nosed Cory

Corydoras brevirostris is immediately set apart from most of its relatives by its distinctly short, rounded snout — the origin of both its scientific and common names. The body pattern is a fine reticulation of dark brown over cream or pale gold, with scattered spots extending onto the dorsal and caudal fins. It is a small species native to rivers and streams of Guyana and surrounding lowland areas.

In the wild it inhabits shallow, soft, slightly acidic streams with sandy or fine gravel substrates and leaf litter accumulations. It is a calm and undemanding species in the aquarium, though it does best when water parameters reflect its natural habitat — low hardness and a pH below neutral are ideal.

C. brevirostris is rarely offered in the mainstream trade but appears occasionally through specialist importers. Once established in a suitable aquarium, it is hardy and long-lived. Groups of six or more are recommended, and the aquarium should include plenty of cover such as dense plant growth, driftwood, and Indian almond leaves.

Water: Soft and slightly acidic, pH 5.5–7.0, temperature 22–26°C; tannin-stained water beneficial. Tank: 60 L minimum with sand substrate, leaf litter, and subdued lighting to reduce stress. Feeding: Sinking micro-pellets, frozen Daphnia, bloodworm, and occasional live brine shrimp. Breeding: Not well documented in captivity; likely similar to close relatives requiring cool water trigger and fine-leafed plants. Compatibility: Peaceful; best with similarly sized, non-aggressive fish in soft water setups.