Delphax Brochis (Brochis delphax)

Remarks:   Delphax Brochis are a species commonly misconstrued with a few other similar looking Brochis species. They can be identified by the block spots in their caudal fins, more dark spots across the body that tend to fade with age, a dark patch at the anterior end of the dorsal fin, and a fairly elongated snout. While they are mainly know to occur in the upper Orinoco basin in Colombia, there have been reports of specimens being found also in Peru. Delphax Brochis were previously classified as Corydoras delphax, but were reclassified as Brochis delphax upon publication of a phylogenomic analysis in 2024 that reclassified many species in the Corydoradinae subfamily.   Corydoradinae are small, peaceful catfish that are active shoalers and will stay near conspecifics, making for a lovely sight. They feed by searching through sand with their barbels, making such a substrate necessary for their long-term health. Gravel substrates tend to be abrasive and damage the barbels, leading to infections and an inability to find food.   While these friendly catfish are willing to swim with other species of Corydoradinae different from their own, this does not provide the same social need as being kept with members of their own species. Because of this, it is highly recommended to keep at least six of each species of Corydoradinae present in the aquarium and only mix species if one has the space to keep at least six of each.   Corydoradinae are often looked at as "scavengers," but they should be treated in a similar fashion as the rest of your fish. They are omnivores and require a mixed diet. Sinking prepared foods are readily accepted, as are frozen and live foods such as brine shrimp, blackworms, and bloodworms.