Description

Emerald Catfish – Brochis splendens

The emerald catfish, though not actually a corydora is more or less the same in behaviour and needs, only much larger than most cories.

Emerald Catfish Set Up

These fish require a bigger aquarium, as they grow larger than cories. The aquarium needs to be spacious with soft sand substrate to protect the fish’s delicate sensory barbels. The addition of bog wood and plants will mimic their natural environment and offer stimulation and shady areas for the fish to take shelter in. They’re not particularly bothered about pH, but water quality must be pristine as they are sensitive to pollutants. Water needs to be well oxygenated, but with a moderate of gentle flow. An efficient filtration system is a must. Like most catfish of this family, Emeralds need to be able to reach the surface of the water as they breathe air intestinally, so a gap between the surface of the water and any form of lid or cover must be made.

Emerald Catfish Behaviour

As a peaceful shoaling species, Emerald Cats should be kept in groups of 5 or more individuals. They are very social with their own kind and single specimens tend to get quite lonely and withdrawn. Their day to day habits are more or less the same as cories. Though they are not venomous, it is worth noting that their pectoral fins are used as a defence against predation, with very sharp, hard spines that can pierce skin if the fish were to be handled.

Tank Mates

Due to their peaceful disposition, they can cohabit with a whole host of tank mates, such as any kind of tetra, loaches, barbs, dwarf cichlids, angelfish and rainbowfish. Avoid larger species of cichlids as they may intimidate the catfish and discourage them to come out of hiding.

Feeding

Food can be offered in the form of sinking wafers as well as a generous supplement of fresh or frozen fish foods.

If you have any questions about keeping these fish, please contact us and a member of our friendly tropical team will be more than happy to advise you on best practice.

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