
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Scleromystax barbatus
A large species in which males grow bristle-like odontodes on the cheeks. It comes from subtropical coastal rivers in Brazil and prefers a cool 16-24C, unlike tropical corydoras.
Scleromystax barbatus is a callichthyid bottom dweller from coastal drainages between Rio de Janeiro and Santa Catarina in Brazil. FishBase gives a standard length of 9.8cm and Seriously Fish 10cm, among the largest of the corydoras group. Mature males carry dense bristle-like odontodes on the cheeks, the source of both names, along with a white-gold stripe on a black forehead and sharper flank markings than females. Its subtropical range means it wants cool water, and Seriously Fish gives 16-24C, with pH 5.5-7.5, 1-12dGH and a 120 x 45cm base of about 243 litres as the minimum. Males are aggressively territorial towards each other and cannot share a small aquarium. Females are rounder and slightly larger. Spawning is triggered by a 50-70 percent cool water change once females are gravid, and eggs hatch in 3-4 days. FishBase records the species as an obligate air-breather. IUCN status is Least Concern.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Bearded Corydoras grows to 9.8-10cm.
The ideal temperature for the Bearded Corydoras is 16〜24℃.
Origin
South America (coastal drainages from Rio de Janeiro to Santa Catarina, Brazil)
Size
9.8-10cm
Temperature
16〜24℃
Sources: FishBase / Seriously Fish
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Scleromystax barbatus (Quoy & Gaimard, 1824)
Authority databases: FishBase
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / IUCN Red List
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Sinking dried foods, frozen bloodworm, Tubifex
A 120 x 45cm base of about 243 litres is the minimum. Break up sight lines with wood and stone to ease male territoriality.
16-24C, pH 5.5-7.5 and 1-12dGH. Being subtropical it needs cool water, so guard against summer highs.
Males are aggressively territorial towards one another and cannot be housed together in small tanks. Otherwise peaceful with similarly sized fish.
A foraging omnivore. Offer sinking dried food plus frozen bloodworm and Tubifex. Do not treat it as a clean-up crew.
When the female is gravid, make a 50-70 percent cool water change. Eggs go on glass, fine-leaved plants or mops and hatch in 3-4 days.
It surfaces to gulp air for intestinal respiration, so keep the route to the surface clear. IUCN status is Least Concern.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Bearded Corydoras is 16〜24℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
Bearded Corydoras typically reaches 9.8-10cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Bearded Corydoras feeds on: Sinking dried foods, frozen bloodworm, Tubifex. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Bearded Corydoras varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 16, 2026