Fin's Fish Guide
The Bronze catfish (Corydoras aeneus) is a freshwater fish of the family Callichthyidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Northern and central South America; quiet, shallow waters with soft bottom.
Description
The bronze corydoras is an armoured catfish (Callichthyidae) from northern and central South America. The species has a stocky body armoured with two rows of bony plates, a bronze-green to coppery sheen and barbels around the inferior mouth. It lives mainly in calm, shallow waters with a soft bottom, but also in flowing water, and gulps air at the surface that takes up oxygen in the gut. As an omnivore it roots in the bottom for worms, insect larvae and organic material. It is a very popular aquarium fish. The stout pectoral fin spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bronze catfish?
The Bronze catfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Armoured with bony plates and a bronze-green sheen; gulps air for intestinal breathing; very popular aquarium fish.
Where does the Bronze catfish live?
The Bronze catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northern and central South America; quiet, shallow waters with soft bottom.
How big does the Bronze catfish get?
The Bronze catfish grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Bronze catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Bronze catfish is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but the stout pectoral and dorsal fin spines can inflict a painful puncture wound when handled. Clean the wound thoroughly and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the Bronze catfish edible?
The Bronze catfish 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 Bronze catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bronze catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.