
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Brochis arcuatus
A medium-sized corydoras crossed by a single arched black band that runs from the snout over the back to the caudal peduncle, the source of both its names. Hardy and peaceful, it is valued for the way groups forage across the substrate.
Brochis arcuatus is a callichthyid catfish of the upper Amazon basin, transferred from Corydoras arcuatus in the 2024 generic revision. FishBase gives a standard length of 4.8cm and Seriously Fish 5.5cm. Its defining mark is a single black band that runs from the snout through the eye and arches along the back to the caudal peduncle, the source of the name Skunk Corydoras. The body is pale cream to soft pink, which sharpens the contrast. It accepts a wide 20-28C, with pH 5.0-7.5 and 2-12dGH. Seriously Fish does not record a recommended tank size for this species, so base footprint on comparable corydoras of the same length. Peaceful and strongly gregarious, it settles best in groups of at least 4-6. Fine sand that spares the barbels is the key to keeping it long term. IUCN status is Least Concern.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Skunk Corydoras lives 8-12 years.
The Skunk Corydoras grows to 4.8-5.5cm.
The ideal temperature for the Skunk Corydoras is 20〜28℃.
Origin
South America (upper Amazon River basin)
Lifespan
8-12 years
Size
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: Brochis arcuatus (Elwin, 1938)
Synonyms: Corydoras arcuatus
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.
Find listings for this species
4.8-5.5cm
Temperature
20〜28℃
Sinking dried foods, frozen bloodworm, Tubifex
Seriously Fish records no recommended size, so match the footprint used for corydoras of similar length. Use fine rounded sand.
20-28C, pH 5.0-7.5 and 2-12dGH. Tolerance is broad but it dislikes sudden swings.
Peaceful and gregarious; keep at least 4-6 with similarly sized peaceful species.
A foraging omnivore. Base the diet on sinking dried food with frozen bloodworm and Tubifex. Do not treat it as a clean-up crew.
Seriously Fish records no breeding protocol for this species. Large cool water changes are the usual trigger in the genus, but no established procedure is published for it.
Dirty substrate wears the barbels down. Clean the bottom regularly and avoid sharp-grained sand. IUCN status is Least Concern.
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
The ideal temperature for Skunk Corydoras is 20〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Skunk Corydoras is 8-12 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Skunk Corydoras typically reaches 4.8-5.5cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Skunk Corydoras feeds on: Sinking dried foods, frozen bloodworm, Tubifex. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Skunk Corydoras varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 17, 2026