Acre Corydoras

Adults of this fish reach approximately 5 cm in length. Their body shape is typical for most corydoras: despite their modest size, they give the impression of being stocky and quite robust. The coloration of the Acre Corydoras is not unique; many Cory catfish have a similar pattern – black speckles on a grayish background. Examples of such species include the Armored Cory, Agassiz's Corydoras, and Gomez's Corydoras. The main distinguishing feature of the Acre Corydoras is its evenly distributed speckles that do not form lines, as well as a noticeable black spot on the dorsal fin. These catfish are undemanding to keep. Aquarium maintenance requires standard procedures: weekly partial water changes, regular removal of organic waste (excrement and food remnants), and prophylactic inspection of equipment. Optimal conditions for a group of 4–6 individuals are created by an aquarium of 80 liters or more, equipped with a soft substrate, several hiding places on the bottom, and filled with water with suitable pH and dGH values. Cory catfish are not picky eaters, so there are usually no problems with food selection. They readily accept any appropriately sized food, preferably sinking foods. Distinguished by their peaceful nature, Acre Corydoras get along well with most other species that do not pose a predatory threat to them.

The species is endemic to the Juruá River basin in Acre State, Brazil [seriouslyfish.com]. It inhabits freshwater rivers and streams of South America, preferring areas with abundant vegetation and soft sandy or silty bottoms [aqua-fish.net].

A peaceful and schooling fish, primarily active in the bottom layers of the water. For their comfort and to exhibit natural behavior, it is necessary to keep a group of 4–6 or more individuals [seriouslyfish.com]. It coexists well with other non-aggressive fish species suitable for a community aquarium [aqua-fish.net].

For keeping a group, an aquarium of 40–80 liters is recommended [aqua-fish.net, aquainfo.org]. It is critically important to use fine sand or smooth gravel as substrate to avoid damaging the fish's sensitive barbels [seriouslyfish.com, aquainfo.org]. The decor should include live plants, driftwood, and rocks to create hiding places. Effective filtration and regular water changes are necessary [aqua-fish.net].

An omnivorous species that feeds on small invertebrates and organic detritus in nature. In the aquarium, it accepts high-quality sinking dry foods, as well as frozen or live foods such as bloodworms or tubifex [seriouslyfish.com]. Feeding should be done regularly, avoiding the expectation that the fish will feed exclusively on leftover food from other inhabitants [seriouslyfish.com].

Breeding in captivity occurs rarely. Like other members of the genus, these fish are egg-layers [aqua-fish.net]. In nature, eggs are laid in hidden places among dense vegetation or in crevices [aqua-fish.net]. Spawning can be stimulated by imitating the rainy season through water changes with softer and cooler water [aqua-fish.net].

The species is hardy when stable water parameters are maintained. The main danger is damage to the barbels when kept on sharp or dirty substrate, which leads to the development of bacterial infections [aquainfo.org]. Caution should also be exercised when catching them, as the stiff rays of the pectoral fins can inflict painful stings, and the secretion from glands at their base may be mildly toxic [seriouslyfish.com].

When purchasing, choose active fish with clean skin and undamaged fins. It is important to ensure that the individuals have intact barbels, as their absence indicates improper keeping conditions in the store [aquainfo.org]. Avoid individuals showing signs of emaciation or unnatural behavior, such as constantly staying near the water surface without other apparent reasons [seriouslyfish.com].