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About the Brochis / Emerald Corydoras

The Brochis, also known as the Emerald Corydoras, is a stunning freshwater catfish admired for its brilliant metallic emerald-green body and peaceful nature. Native to the slow-moving rivers, floodplains, and tributaries of the Amazon Basin in South America, this larger relative of the common Corydoras is a favourite among aquarists looking for an attractive and hardworking bottom dweller.

Unlike smaller Corydoras species, the Emerald Brochis grows to around 8–9 cm and has a more robust body with a taller dorsal fin. Their iridescent green, blue, and bronze colouration changes beautifully under different lighting conditions, making them a striking addition to planted and community aquariums.

Brochis are highly social fish and should always be kept in groups of at least six. They spend much of their day searching the substrate for leftover food while helping to keep the aquarium tidy. A soft sand substrate is highly recommended to protect their sensitive barbels and allow them to forage naturally.

Hardy, peaceful, and easy to care for, the Emerald Brochis is an excellent choice for community aquariums containing tetras, rasboras, gouramis, rainbowfish, dwarf cichlids, and other peaceful tropical species.

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Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name

Brochis splendens

Common Name

Brochis / Emerald Corydoras

Origin

Amazon Basin, South America

Adult Size

8–9 cm

Temperament

Peaceful

Diet

Omnivore

Minimum Tank Size

90 Litres

Temperature

22–28°C

pH

6.0–7.5

Water Hardness

2–15 dGH

Difficulty

Beginner

Lifespan

8–10 Years

Suitable For

Community aquariums and planted tanks

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are Brochis and Emerald Corydoras the same fish?

Yes. Brochis splendens is commonly known as the Emerald Corydoras or Emerald Brochis. Although historically placed in the genus Brochis, it is often grouped with Corydoras due to updated scientific classification.

How many Emerald Brochis should I keep?

They are schooling fish and should always be kept in groups of at least six. Larger groups display more natural behaviour and are much more confident.

What do Emerald Brochis eat?

They enjoy quality sinking pellets, algae wafers, frozen bloodworms, blackworms, brine shrimp, and other sinking foods. They should not rely solely on leftover food.

Can Emerald Brochis live with shrimp?

Yes. They are peaceful and generally ignore adult shrimp and most juvenile shrimp, making them excellent tank mates for shrimp aquariums.

Do Emerald Brochis need sand?

A fine sand substrate is highly recommended, allowing them to forage naturally without damaging their sensitive barbels.

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Common Mistakes

Keeping them alone

Emerald Brochis are social fish that become stressed when kept individually or in small groups.

Using coarse gravel

Sharp gravel can damage their barbels and prevent natural feeding behaviour.

Assuming they only eat leftovers

They require dedicated sinking foods to remain healthy and should not be relied upon as "clean-up fish."

Poor water quality

Regular water changes and good filtration are essential for maintaining healthy barbels and vibrant colouration.

Keeping them with aggressive fish

Choose peaceful tank mates that won't outcompete or harass these gentle bottom dwellers.