Brochis reticulatus

A Little More Information...

Brochis reticulatus, also known as Corydoras reticulatus, is a small Amazonian catfish appreciated for its net-like pattern and peaceful behavior. A member of the Callichthyidae family, it spends much of its time near the bottom, using its barbels to explore the substrate. This social species should be kept in a group, in a mature aquarium with clean, soft and slightly acidic water. Its availability remains moderate in the aquarium trade, making it an appealing choice for aquarists interested in less common corydoras. A soft substrate and regular access to sinking foods are central to its long-term care.

General species description

Brochis reticulatus is a calm, social bottom-dwelling catfish that is mainly active during the day, although it may also become lively around dusk. Like other corydoras, it has an inferior mouth surrounded by barbels and bony plates protecting the body. It should be kept in groups of at least six, preferably more, to encourage natural behavior and reduce nervousness. In an aquarium, it mainly uses the lower area of the layout but regularly rises to the surface because it can use atmospheric air. Its availability is moderate, and shipments may be irregular. It suits a peaceful community aquarium without fish large enough to intimidate it or treat it as prey. Good oxygenation and stable water quality are especially important.

Geographic origin and biotope

Country of reference: Peru. Brochis reticulatus is associated with the western Amazon basin, particularly the Rio Nanay near the Iquitos region. Its natural environment includes calm or slow-flowing areas with soft water, often slightly acidic, a fine sandy substrate and an accumulation of leaves and plant debris. Riparian vegetation shades the water and adds organic matter to the bottom. To recreate this setting, use non-abrasive sand, roots, some dried leaves and plants that tolerate subdued lighting. Efficient filtration without excessive current is essential for maintaining stable, well-oxygenated water. Avoid sharp gravel, which can damage the barbels during constant bottom foraging.

Precise location and local name

The reference locality generally associated with Brochis reticulatus is in the Rio Nanay area of the Peruvian Amazon, around Iquitos. No specific local vernacular name is retained here. Aquarium keepers usually call it the reticulated cory, reticulated corydoras or reticulated catfish. The name Corydoras reticulatus remains common in catalogs and among breeders, even though the species is now placed in the genus Brochis by several taxonomic treatments. When purchasing, check the body pattern and scientific identification, since some corydoras with reticulated markings may be confused with closely related species. A reliable source is preferable for uncommon fish.

Appearance and physical characteristics

The body of Brochis reticulatus is stocky, slightly compressed laterally and covered with bony plates. Its most distinctive feature is a dark net-like pattern made of irregular lines and spots over a beige, gray-silver or light brown background. The head usually shows small dark markings, while the fins are generally translucent with subtle pigmentation. The barbels are important for identification and must remain undamaged; sharp gravel or a dirty substrate can wear them down. Adult size reaches approximately 5 to 6 cm, depending on sex and rearing conditions. Mature females are usually broader and more rounded than males, especially when viewed from above. Good nutrition helps preserve body shape and coloration.

General diet

Brochis reticulatus is an omnivore with a carnivorous tendency, searching the substrate for small prey and organic particles. In an aquarium, provide a varied diet of quality sinking wafers, suitable bottom-feeding pellets and regular frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms and daphnia. Food should reach the bottom quickly so the group can feed without excessive competition. Do not rely on leftovers from other fish or treat this species as a simple cleaner. A balanced diet supports growth, female condition and spawning. Protein-rich foods are especially useful before breeding, but should be offered in moderation to prevent excess organic waste and deteriorating water quality. Feed small portions that are fully consumed.

Essential data

• Native river: Rio Nanay
• Local name used: Reticulated cory; reticulated corydoras
• Origin of the scientific name: Brochis is the genus name; reticulatus describes the net-like body pattern.
• Full-name etymology: Brochis is a zoological genus name; reticulatus comes from Latin and means reticulated or netted, referring to the body pattern.
• Common/vernacular names: Reticulated cory, reticulated corydoras, reticulated catfish
• Family: Callichthyidae
• Subfamily: Corydoradinae
• Name pronunciation: broh-kiss reh-tik-yoo-LAH-tus
• Discovery: Han Nijssen and Isaäc J. H. Isbrücker, 1983
• Maximum adult size: Approximately 6 cm
• Water temperature and pH: 23 to 28 °C; pH 6.0 to 7.5
• Watercourse appearance and surrounding vegetation: Calm to slow-flowing, shaded water with fine sand, leaf litter, roots and dense riparian vegetation.
• Typical tankmates: Small Amazonian characins, peaceful dwarf cichlids and other compatible corydoras.
• Temperament and behavior: Peaceful, social, active near the bottom and often foraging in a group.
• Water depth: Shallow to moderately deep areas near banks and vegetation-choked sections.
• Sexual dimorphism: Females are larger and broader; males are generally slimmer.
• Bottom structure and flow: Fine sand, leaves and plant debris; low to moderate current.

In your aquarium

To succeed with Brochis reticulatus, keep a group of at least six, provide soft sand to protect the barbels and maintain stable water conditions. Regular water changes, well-maintained filtration and a varied sinking diet matter more than an elaborate layout. Avoid boisterous tankmates, extreme temperatures and waste accumulation in the substrate. Roots, plants and shaded areas will help the group feel secure. Under these conditions, this corydoras can become an active and fascinating community fish that remains healthy for years in a carefully maintained aquarium. Consistency is the key to long-term success.