Semiaquilus Cory

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Stably inhabits the dark rainforest rivers ("blackwater" and clear waters) in the upper Amazon basin (Peru and western Brazil). Lives scraping the shady benthic mantle full of humus, tannins and gigantic accumulations of decaying leaves.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Splendid and imposing "long-snouted" member of the Callichthyidae family, touches 6.5 cm (2.5 inches). Distinctively characterized by a sloping, prolonged and pointed snout used as a perfect discoverer of worms hidden in the muddy depths.

Social Behavior: Very strong herd instinct. Requires large tanks and numerous schools (at least 6-8 specimens). Social dynamics within the school mitigate the marked shyness of the species: they will patrol shoulder to shoulder the entire aquatic floor plan.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Extraordinary dark "camouflage" livery. The chocolate-brown body, tending to metallic olive, boasts intricate dark vermiculated networks. Silvery/pinkish belly in sharp contrast. Females are notably stockier, taller and thicker than the wedge-shaped males.

Aquarium Setup: Does not compromise on grain size: the tank demands a dense carpet of only sifted inert sand. It is mandatory to massively darken the water with oak/Catappa leaves, intricate woods that release humic acids and a thick cover of floating plants (Limnobium).

Diet and Feeding: Carnivorous digger not to be fed only commercial tablets. To maintain the 6.5 cm mass, constant and gluttonous sinking night/evening meals must be integrated: giant tubifex in blocks, conspicuous bloodworms (thawed) and sliced earthworms.

Water Quality: Suffers enormously from organic degradation. Temperature 22-26°C (72-79°F). The amber water must settle on moderate values: weakly acidic/neutral pH (6.0 - 7.2), soft GH (2-12). Granite biological filtration and constant massive water changes.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Lives docilely with the vast majority of placid South American fish. Elite roommate for schools of Tetras (Emperor, Bleeding heart), Nannostomus and quiet dwarf Cichlids (Dicrossus). Woe to placing it alongside fierce loaches or fish of incompatible size.

Aquarium Reproduction: Rare. Requires drastic conditioning of the breeders based on live food and massive cold RO water refreshments to simulate the rainy season. The T-position culminates in large tenaciously glued eggs, which will however be ruthlessly eaten by the adults.

Risks and Diseases: Intolerant to any angular gravel that would lead to the inescapable infected amputation of its very delicate tactile rostrum. Shows extreme sensitivity and a high death rate if treated in the tank with full dosages of Malachite green.