Skunk Cory (Corydoras Arcuatus)

Like other members of the Cory family, the skunk cory is an armored catfish; instead of scales, they possess overlapping bony plates, as well as sharp spines on their fins. This “armor” offers them some measure of protection from predatory fish. Owners also should exercise care when netting them, as the spines can get caught in the net. Frequently confused with Corydoras narcissus, the skunk cory has a much shorter nose. The fins are transparent; however, the tail has a smattering of very tiny dark spots.

The body of the skunk cory is cream-white colored, sometimes showing an attractive yellow-gold sheen. A black stripe begins at the mouth, runs through the eye, and then arches along the back, thus giving rise to both of its fitting commons names: arched cory and skunk cory. This stripe continues on to the beginning of the tail where it turns sharply downward. Whether in alarm or at rest, all parts of this black stripe can turn so pale that it almost disappears.