Cory = helmet, doras = skin. In this case it was incorrectly used to mean armour (cuirasse) instead of skin in allusion to the dual rows of plates that run along the flanks of this genus. Greek Mythology, After Narkissos, son of the Greek river god Kephissus. See catfish of the month article for a more detailed discussion.
Corydoras are identified by their twin rows of armour plates along the flanks and by having fewer than 10 dorsal fin rays. They are most commonly confused with the other genera in the sub-family, namely Brochis, Scleromystax and Aspidoras. C. narcissus is the long snouted ''version'' of C. arcuatus and is readily identifiable by this characteristic. Two species exist that are commonly sold as C. narcissus. The real one is longer (the ratio of body height to length being significantly different), has a more pronounced concave head and a slightly darker basic colouration. The other, shorter fish is currently undescribed but can sometimes be labelled under the common name of mega narcissus or narcissus II.
Brazil: Amazonas state, Rio Humaita tributary of Rio Purus System Amazon, Middle Amazon, Purus, Humaita(click on these areas to find other species found there)
A little shading helps makes the fish feel at home. Sandy substrate brings out the best in these fish although because of the large size of the adult fish small pea gravel can also be employed.
Peaceful and not anti-social with other catfish excepting occasional quarrels with it's own species. Youngsters appear sociable to each other but become quarrelsome with age. Rival adult males may bully each other to death if kept in too small an aquarium.
South American dwarf Cichlids, larger Characins such as Silver Dollars (Metynnis spp.) are ideal although medium sized Central American Cichlids and Asian anabatids are good alternatives if your are not a biotope purists.
(1) Keithj, who also notes, "Spawned 23 Nov 2007. 24C and pH 7, with rising air pressure. Only two fish took part, the others showing no interest. Eggs deposited in ones or twos in areas of strong current, mostly on the edges of giant vallis leaves but a few put on the glass.", (2) hka148, (3) Zebadee, (4) Yann. Click on a username above to see all that persons registered catfish species. You can also view all "My Cats" data for this species.
- CotM 1999 December - Show thumbnails of all species of Corydoras -
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