Fin's Fish Guide
The Blacksail corydoras (Corydoras melanistius) is a freshwater fish of the family Callichthyidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The blacksail corydoras is a small armoured catfish of the family Callichthyidae from northern South America. The species reaches only about 5 cm and has a body covered, instead of scales, with two rows of bony plates; characteristic are a dark eye-band and a black blotch at the dorsal-fin base. Around the downward-pointing mouth it bears barbels with which it searches sand and silt for worms, crustaceans, insects and plant matter. It lives in schools on the bottom. The pectoral and dorsal fin spines are sharp and mildly venomous and can deliver a painful sting when handled carelessly.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blacksail corydoras?
The Blacksail corydoras has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Small armoured bottom fish with a dark eye band and a dorsal blotch; sharp, mildly venomous fin spines.
Where does the Blacksail corydoras live?
The Blacksail corydoras lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. The north of South America, in the Guianas and adjacent basins.
How big does the Blacksail corydoras get?
The Blacksail corydoras grows to a maximum of about 5 cm. On average the species is around 4 cm.
Is the Blacksail corydoras dangerous to humans?
The Blacksail corydoras can cause injury; handle it with care. The pectoral and dorsal fin spines are sharp and mildly venomous; a sting gives a painful, burning wound. Hold the fish carefully, immerse the wound in warm water if needed and clean and disinfect it.
Is the Blacksail corydoras edible?
The Blacksail corydoras is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Corydoras
More from the family Callichthyidae
Want the complete picture on the Blacksail corydoras?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blacksail corydoras is one of 12,519 species in the app.