In behavioral science, the baby schema (Kindchenschema) refers to a combination of physical characteristics that evoke instinctive reactions in the observer—reactions that are normally triggered only by the young of one’s own species: protective instincts. In addition, people generally find babies cute and view them positively. The baby schema includes, among other things, a chubby build, large eyes, and a shortened facial skull. Among fish, species that conform to the baby schema are rather rare. The phenomenon occurs most frequently in certain breeds of goldfish. But the rare and new armored catfish CW162, which we are introducing to you here, also exhibits some of these traits.
CW162 is undoubtedly a member of the genus Hoplisoma. It most closely resembles H. eversi and H. multimaculatum, though there are color differences; furthermore, the range of CW162 is far from that of the two aforementioned species. More specific details are not yet known, but CW162 is found in the upper reaches of the Rio Tapajós in Brazil. The first specimens were offered by exporters as “Corydoras Rena”; we do not know what this name is supposed to mean. What particularly strikes us is the stocky build of this species. They are really cute little chubby fish! This is not an artifact resulting from overfeeding. Although our specimens are German-bred, even the wild-caught ones already had this characteristic body shape.
For our customers: CW162 is listed under code 248802 in our stock list. Please note that we supply exclusively to wholesale customers.
Text & photos: Frank Schäfer
