The thorny catfishes of the genera Doras, Hassar, Hemidoras, Leptodoras, Nemadoras and Tenellus look quite similar at the first glimpse and have often been confused with each other in the past, both in scientific and aquarium literature; accordingly, there are always small question marks behind the identification of rarely imported species.
From Colombia we have now for the first time received delightful juveniles (3-5 cm) of a species that we refer to as Tenellus leporhinus (formerly: Nemadoras leporhinus) on the basis of the shape of the head and the pattern of the dorsal fin spine. This is a medium-sized species that reaches a standard length of around 8 cm (excluding caudal fin).
The juveniles are extremely lively and highly active. They are great fun to watch. As far as care is concerned, all the basic rules for keeping Corydoras catfish apply. However, adult Tenellus are more active at dusk. They should always be kept in shoals, as they always seek the company of conspecifics. They are completely peaceful towards other fish. They pay no attention to plants.
For our customers: the animals have code 272771 on our stock list. Please note that we only supply the wholesale trade.
Text & photos: Frank Schäfer
