Etymology Hyphessobrycon: from the Ancient Greek υπελάσσων (hyphesson), meaning ‘of lesser stature’, and used as a prefix in this case, plus the generic name Brycon. balbus: from the Latin balbus, meaning ‘stuttering’, in reference to the incomplete lateral line in this species which is described as ‘stuttering’ in its description. Classification Order: Characiformes Family: Characidae Distribution The species under consideration is […]
Both the first common name and the synonym for this species indicate just how closely Aspidoras and Corydoras species catfish are related to each other. The main distinguishing skeletal feature between the two — but one that cannot be observed in living specimens—is the number of cranial fontanels (skull pores, openings, or “holes”): Aspidoras sp. has two, while Corydoras sp. and Brochis sp. have one. The False Corydoras is a delightful species, liberally speckled in black and with a distinctive black blotch on the dorsal fin.
Catfish represent one of the largest groups of aquarium fish and also one of the most diverse in terms of appearance and lifestyle. There are more than 2,000 species in approximately 30 families. Some of these fish are sedentary and suitable for a community tank, while others are active predators that grow to a large size.
[Ebook] Encyclopedia of Aquarium & Pond Fish – David Alderton (Photo by Max Gibbs)
These small, armoured catfishes are ideal inmates for the community tank, where they will swim in small groups in search of food. Corydoras, with over 100 different species from which to choose, are often the first cat-fishes to be kept. Dianema longibarbis (Porthole Catfish) and Dianema urostriata (Flagtailed Catfish) belong to the same family as the Corydoras, but grow to 14 cm (5 1/2 in).
[Ebook] The New Guide to Aquarium Fish – A comprehensive and authoritative guide to tropical freshwater, brackish, and marine fishes – Mary Bailey – Gina Sandford