Brochis pinheiroi C25

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Introduction

Brochis pinheiroi C25, also known as Corydoras pinheiroi, is a small South American catfish belonging to the family Callichthyidae. Sold in the aquarium hobby under the code C25, it is recognized by its stocky body, bony plates and schooling behaviour. Native to Brazil, it inhabits calm sections of streams where it searches the substrate with its barbels. Its rarity, classified as Very rare, makes it a sought-after fish for aquarists who appreciate peaceful, natural-looking bottom dwellers.

General species description

Brochis pinheiroi C25 is an armoured catfish from the subfamily Callichthyinae. Like other members of Brochis, it is social and spends much of its time close to the bottom. Activity often increases under subdued lighting and after food is added. In aquaria, it should be kept in a group of at least six specimens, in a mature and well-oxygenated tank. Peaceful by nature, it suits community aquariums containing calm species. Its behaviour can be discreet, which is part of its appeal. The C25 code is commonly used by aquarists to identify this form or population.

Geographical origin and biotope

This species is associated with Brazil, in the basin of the Rio Ribeirão. It comes from small tropical streams where the current ranges from slow to moderate. The natural environment generally includes shallow areas, shaded banks and a bottom made of fine sand, silt and decaying plant material. Riparian vegetation helps filter light and enrich the water with organic matter. In an aquarium, roots, plants and open areas provide a more suitable recreation of this habitat than a brightly lit tank without shelter.

Specific location and local name

The reference locality supplied for Brochis pinheiroi C25 is the Rio Ribeirão in Brazil. In the aquarium hobby, it is mainly identified by the C25 code and by the names Corydoras pinheiroi or Brochis pinheiroi. These designations are useful because several South American armoured catfish still circulate under varying trade names. To preserve accurate records, it is best to keep the collection or strain code together with the name used at purchase. This is especially useful for a species considered very rare in the trade.

Appearance and physical characteristics

The body of Brochis pinheiroi C25 is short, deep and protected by two rows of bony plates. Its inferior mouth bears sensory barbels used to locate food in the substrate. Its shape resembles that of robust Corydoras, with a well-developed dorsal fin and stiff pectoral spines that can cause discomfort during handling. Overall coloration is subdued, with markings that may vary according to lighting, age and strain. An adult length of approximately 6 cm is generally expected in aquaria. Non-abrasive sand is recommended to protect the barbels.

General diet

Brochis pinheiroi C25 is a benthic omnivore that searches the bottom for small organisms and edible organic material. In aquaria, its diet should include high-quality sinking tablets, offered after the lights are partially dimmed so the group can feed without excessive competition. Frozen foods such as mosquito larvae, brine shrimp and bloodworms can supplement the diet. Food should reach the bottom quickly, since this fish should not rely only on leftovers from other tank inhabitants. A varied diet supports good condition and healthy barbels.

Essential data

• Native river: Rio Ribeirão
• Local name used: C25
• Origin of the scientific name: Genus name Brochis; pinheiroi is a Latinized patronym.
• Full-name etymology: Brochis identifies the genus; pinheiroi uses the name Pinheiro in scientific form.
• Common/vernacular names: Corydoras pinheiroi, Brochis pinheiroi, C25
• Family: Callichthyidae
• Subfamily: Callichthyinae
• Name pronunciation: bro-kiss pin-hay-ROY
• Maximum adult size: Approximately 6 cm
• Water temperature and pH: 23 to 27 °C; pH 6.0 to 7.5
• Stream appearance and surrounding vegetation: Shaded, shallow to moderately flowing stream with riparian vegetation and decaying plant material.
• Typical tankmates: Brochis splendens, Hoplisoma sterbai, Hemigrammus rhodostomus, Hyphessobrycon amandae
• Temperament and behaviour: Peaceful, social and active near the bottom.
• Water depth: Shallow areas.
• Sexual dimorphism: Females are generally broader and more robust when viewed from above; differences are clearer in adults.
• Bottom structure and flow: Fine sand or soft substrate, with calm areas and low to moderate current.

For greater success

To keep Brochis pinheiroi C25 successfully, provide a mature aquarium, stable water and fine, non-abrasive sand. Maintain a proper group, offer shelter and avoid aggressive or overly competitive tankmates. Regular water changes, good oxygenation and a varied sinking diet are essential. Because the species is very rare, careful acclimation and minimal handling are especially important. Clean water and a calm environment will allow its social behaviour and constant bottom foraging to be observed at their best.