Brochis splendens — Emerald Brochis (also known as Emerald Corydoras or Green Corydoras)
Family: Callichthyidae
Origin: Western Amazon Basin — Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, and Brazil
Size: Up to 8 cm (3.1 inches)
Lifespan: 10+ years
 
Natural Habitat
Environment: Slow-moving rivers and floodplain areas with silty or sandy bottoms
Water Conditions: Soft to slightly hard, with vegetation and leaf litter
Temperature Range: 22–28°C (72–82°F)
 
Physical Description
Body Shape: More robust and taller-bodied than typical Corydoras
Coloration:
Shimmering metallic green to bluish-green along the body
Slight bronze or gold undertones depending on lighting
Fins: Clear to slightly yellowish; dorsal fin taller than that of regular Corys
Note: Often confused with Corydoras aeneus (Bronze Cory), but Brochis splendens is larger, with more dorsal fin rays (10–12 vs. 6–8).
 
Aquarium Care
Tank Size: Minimum 75 litres (20 gallons) for a group
Water Parameters:
pH: 6.0–7.5
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)
Water Flow: Gentle
Substrate: Soft sand preferred to protect barbels
Décor: Driftwood, leaf litter, hiding spots, and live or artificial plants
Filtration: Stable, oxygen-rich water with gentle current
 
Diet
Type: Omnivorous bottom-feeder
Preferred Foods:
Sinking pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia
Algae wafers and blanched vegetables for variety
Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times daily
 
Behavior & Tank Mates
Temperament:
Peaceful and gregarious; thrives in groups of 5 or more
Larger but just as gentle as smaller Corydoras
Compatible Tank Mates:
Other peaceful community fish (e.g., tetras, rasboras, small gouramis)
Avoid fin-nippers or aggressive species
Behavior Notes:
Active during the day; often rests under cover when not foraging
May dart to the surface to gulp air
 
Breeding
Spawning Method: Egg layer
Breeding Conditions:
Stimulated by frequent cool water changes and high-protein foods
Eggs laid on glass or smooth surfaces
Fry Care:
Eggs hatch in 3–5 days
Feed fry infusoria, then baby brine shrimp
 
Conservation Status
IUCN Status: Not Evaluated
Notes: A striking and peaceful bottom-dweller with a metallic sheen; best kept in groups in planted, well-maintained aquaria