Description

 

🐟 Blackfin Catfish (Aspidoras sp. CW052) – Rare, Active & Peaceful Micro Catfish

The Blackfin Catfish (Aspidoras sp. CW052) is a fascinating and rare species closely related to Corydoras. Native to South America, this micro-catfish is loved for its unique dark-tipped fins and shy, active nature. Slightly smaller and more delicate than true Corydoras, they thrive in peaceful, planted aquariums with calm companions and gentle conditions.

---

🌿 Quick Overview

• Scientific Name: Aspidoras sp. CW052
• Common Names: Blackfin Catfish, Aspidoras CW052
• Origin: Brazil (upper Rio Araguaia basin)
• Size: 3.5–4.5 cm (1.5–1.8 inches)
• Lifespan: 3–5 years
• Temperament: Peaceful, shy, active in groups
• Minimum Tank Size: 45–60L (10–15 gallons)
• Temperature: 22–26°C
• pH Range: 6.0 – 7.2
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderate

---

✨ Key Features

• 🖤 Striking Black Fin Tips: Subtle yet eye-catching coloration with dusky to black-tipped dorsal and pectoral fins
• 🧍 Micro-Sized & Subtle: Perfect for nano or small aquariums with delicate species
• 🧠 Shy Yet Curious: Prefers to explore in groups, often active during low-light hours
• 🌿 Plant-Safe & Peaceful: Causes no harm to tankmates or plants
• 🧰 Ideal for Cory & Microfish Fans: A rare species appreciated by advanced hobbyists and biotope keepers

---

🧠 Care Guide

✅ Tank Setup:

• Substrate: Soft sand recommended to protect delicate barbels
• Decor: Dense planting, leaf litter, and shaded hiding spots (driftwood, rocks)
• Filtration: Gentle flow with high oxygenation
• Lighting: Dim to moderate preferred; shaded zones are ideal
• Lid: Use a secure lid—they may dart to the surface quickly

✅ Feeding:

• Diet: Omnivorous — fine sinking pellets, micro granules, crushed flake, baby brine shrimp, daphnia
• Feeding Tips: Feed small portions 1–2 times daily; ensure food reaches the bottom

---

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Behavior & Compatibility

• Naturally timid and secretive, becomes more active in larger groups (6–10+)
• Peaceful with all similarly small and gentle species
• Schooling behavior enhances confidence and reduces stress
• Avoid boisterous tankmates or strong water currents

---

🧩 Ideal Tank Mates

Compatible Species	Notes
✅ Ember Tetras	Calm mid-dwellers, great microfish match
✅ Pygmy Corydoras	Similar size, schooling behavior
✅ Dwarf Rasboras (e.g., Chili)	Small, gentle, active in upper levels
✅ Dwarf Shrimp (Amano, Cherry)	No predation risk, peaceful coexistence
❌ Avoid Gouramis or large Cory species	May outcompete or stress Aspidoras

---

🧪 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 22–26°C
• pH: 6.0 – 7.2
• GH: Soft to moderate (3–12 dGH)
• Water Changes: 25–30% weekly
• Tank Maturity: Best in well-cycled tanks

---

🌟 Why Choose Blackfin Catfish (CW052)?

This rare micro-catfish is a hidden gem for aquarists who love peaceful, plant-rich nano tanks and South American biotope setups. With their unique black fin tips, social schooling behavior, and compatibility with other micro-species, the Blackfin Catfish (Aspidoras sp. CW052) is a distinctive yet low-maintenance choice for a serene aquarium experience.

---

✅ Rare and sought-after species
✅ Peaceful and shrimp-safe
✅ Ideal for nano and planted tanks
✅ Compatible with other shy, small fish

---

🐟 Corydoras & Aspidoras Compatibility Guide

---

✅ Highly Compatible Mixes

---

⚠️ Use Caution With

---

🧠 Mixing Tips for Blackfin Catfish (Aspidoras sp. CW052)

• 🫂 Group Size: Keep at least 6–10 Blackfin for confidence and natural behavior

• 🌿 Habitat: Provide shaded, soft-substrate environments with hiding spots

• 🍽 Feeding: Use fine sinking foods to ensure access for micro-sized bottom feeders

• ⚖️ Balance: Pair with other Corys of similar size and behavior—avoid overstocking with larger species

• 🌡 Water Parameters: Keep temps between 22–26°C, soft to moderately hard water, pH 6.0–7.2

---

🧩 Best Tank Combinations Including Blackfin Catfish (Aspidoras sp. CW052)

---

The Blackfin Catfish (Aspidoras CW052) is a fantastic addition to Corydoras-friendly tanks, especially when paired with equally gentle and size-appropriate species.