All fish / Callichthyidae

Spotted Cory

Hoplisoma punctatum

Also known as spotted corydoras, corydoras punctatus, hoplisoma punctatum, dotted cory, punctatus cory, コリドラス・プンクタータス, 斑点鼠鱼

A small armoured catfish with a pale, silvery brown body covered in fine dark spots, plus a dark patch on the dorsal fin and a dark bar through the eye. It is kept for its peaceful nature and busy group behaviour as it sifts through soft sand for food.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Peaceful

Adult size

5 cm

Temperature

22 to 26 °C

pH

6 to 7.5

Smallest tank

60 litres

Keep as

Group of 6 or more

Diet

Omnivore: sinking pellets and wafers, bloodworm, brine shrimp, daphnia and other small live or frozen foods

Swims

Bottom of the tank

Lifespan

5 to 10 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Suriname and French Guiana, coastal rivers of the Guiana Shield

Breeding

Eggs are laid in the typical Corydoras T-position and stuck to glass or plants, often after a cool water change. It is bred occasionally in captivity, but wild-caught stock is more common in the trade.

Good to know

Genuine specimens are uncommon, and many fish sold under this name are other spotted Corydoras or Hoplisoma species. Keep on soft sand with clean water, as the barbels are easily damaged.