Corydoras armatus belongs to the species of Corydoras which are known by scientists very long already. It represents the sixth described species of the genus. The original description appeared back in 1868. The type specimens originated from Peru (Rio Huallaga). It is quite astonishing that the species appeared comparatively late in the hobby - in the 1990ies. Until now it is a real rarity in the trade.

 

 

The specific name "armatus" means "weaponed, armed" and refers to the enormous dorsal spine. This spine makes the species almost unique. Only two other similar Corydoras are known. One originates from Brazil (Rio Abuna, near the border to Bolivia). The Brazilian was sometimes called “Corydoras dorsalis" and "Corydoras ogawae". Both names are pure fiction and have no scientific relevance. Additionally this form has been given the number CW86.

 

The second sibling species comes from Peru again (Rio Nanay). This form was given the C-number C96. While the Brazilian can only hardly be distinguished from the "real" C. armatus by coloration (or any other feature, except the 2.500 km distance between the Rio Huallaga and the Rio Abuna and the larger spots on the body of CW86), C96 can be easily recognized due to a black stripe over the shoulder, right below the dorsal fin.

 

Now we received the pretty Corydoras armatus for the first time ever from Venezuela! The specimens look exactly like their Peruvian cousins. Our freshly imported fish are very healthy, large specimens. Corydoras armatus attains a maximum length of about 5 cm.

 

For our customers: the fish have code 222105 on our stock list. Please note that we exclusively supply the wholesale trade. Available in limited numbers only!

 

Text & photos: Frank Schäfer