There are developments in the genus Aspidoras. There are currently 18 recognized species. Several long-established names have been reclassified as synonyms (A. eurycephalus = albater, A. mariane = poecilus, A. menezesi = raimundi, A. microgaleatus = poecilus, A. spilotus = raimundi, A. taurus = albater), two species have been reclassified out of the genus (A. pauciradiatus is now in Gastrodermus, A. virgulatus in Scleromystax), and a whole series of new species have been described. Among the latter is A. kiriri, whose scientific description dates from 2017.
This armored catfish, whose species name honors the indigenous Kiriri people who originally lived in eastern Brazil, is known so far only from two small rivers in the upper reaches of the Rio da Dona (state of Bahia, Brazil). Ornamental fish collectors do not usually venture there, which is why the species is practically never found in the trade. In the spring of 2025, we were able to import a small number of specimens, which went directly to one of our breeders. We can now offer the offspring of these specimens.
This attractive, lively, and peaceful fish grows to about 4 cm in length and originates from cool water (around 21°C) with an acidic pH (4.6). However, the water does not need to be that acidic for their care; nevertheless, Aspidoras kiriri should not be kept in water that is too warm. That would be unnatural and, based on experience, would significantly shorten the fish’s lifespan. Otherwise, all the basic rules for keeping armored catfish apply, which we need not repeat here.
For our customers: the fish have codes 208424 (wild-caught, currently unavailable) and 208428 (captive-bred, currently available) on our stock list. Please note that we supply exclusively to wholesalers.
Text & photos: Frank Schäfer
