Coast Cory (Scleromystax prionotos) care guide

Group
Freshwater fish
Other names
Coast Cory, Corydoras prionotos (old name), Kystpansermalle (Danish)
Family
Callichthyidae (armoured catfishes)
Origin
South America: coastal rivers of south-eastern Brazil from Espírito Santo to São Paulo; described from Lagoa Juparanã in the Rio Doce system.
Water
freshwater
Maximum size
5.3 cm
Temperature
22–26°C
pH
6–8
Hardness
2-25 °dGH
Minimum tank
80 litres
Care level
intermediate
Temperament
peaceful

Care

A small cory-type catfish from Brazil's Atlantic coastal rivers, growing to about 5.3 cm standard length. Originally described as Corydoras prionotos and sometimes still sold under that name. Tank: a peaceful shoaling fish that should be kept in a group of six or more. The 80-litre minimum is our estimate for such a group. Fine sand is the best substrate; rounded gravel is acceptable but sharp gravel damages the barbels. Add driftwood, plants and shaded areas made with wood, rocks or floating plants. Water: 22-26 °C. As with other Scleromystax from the Atlantic Forest, it prefers to be kept on the cooler side rather than very warm. Wikipedia gives pH 6-8 and 2-25 °dGH. Sexing: Scleromystax males usually develop bristles (odontodes) on the cheeks; females are larger and rounder. Status: IUCN Least Concern (2018). Sources: PlanetCatfish (planetcatfish.com/common/species.php?speciesid=491); Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scleromystaxprionotos). Checked October 2026.

Diet

Takes most foods that reach the bottom: sinking tablets, granules and flakes. Live or frozen bloodworm, whiteworm and daphnia are eagerly eaten and are especially useful for conditioning a group for spawning.

Breeding

PlanetCatfish has no breeding reports on its data page, though hobbyists have reported spawnings in its forum. Wikipedia notes that eggs are laid in dense vegetation with no parental care. Treat it like other Scleromystax: condition the group on live and frozen food, then make a large, cooler water change to trigger spawning.

Compatibility and tank mates

A peaceful community fish. Keep with small, calm species that like similar subtropical conditions, such as small tetras, rasboras, livebearers and other corys. Avoid fish large enough to eat it and fin-nippers.

Last updated 5 October 2026. Community-edited care guide on Aquatic-Auctions.

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