Schultzei Vs Aeneus

[Dorkhedeos]

What exactly are black corys? Are they Schultzei or Aeneus?

 

[jollysue]

Both

 

[Coryologist]

Both

Huh. I thought everyone was clear on this? I sure hope Ian doesn't see this. Run for cover!!! - Frank

 

[jollysue]

Even I have wearied of telling the tale.

I would say do a search, Dorkhedoes. This is a little long and complex. All the info and debate and misunderstandings are documented right here. If you do one on Coryman alone you will likely get all you need short and to the point. Then if it is still unclear do a broader search. After that then ask again.

 

[Dorkhedeos]

Alright thanks, I was just confused when I saw black corys labeled as both

 

[jollysue]

They have confused me multiple times. I had to ask lots of questions and do lots of research to finally get a version of the story I can live with.

Short and sweet. The taxonomy of Corydoras is in disarray in many areas. There is disagreement as to the species divisions.

There was once many years ago and far away in another century a species known as Corydoras schultzei. But during WWII the holotype and paratype and all the taxonomy records were lost--Germany was pretty torn up, you know.

The species once known as C. schultzei was added to the C. aeneus clan. There continues to be debate and differences of opinion. Ian Fuller is a supporter of the C. schultzei typing. There are others that support the C. aeneus typing. Officially the fish is typed as C. aeneus. Many of us continue to call it C. schultzei.

The black is a variant of the C. schultzei/aeneus from Peru. It was developed in the aquarium. It does not occur natually in the wild, although there is a very dark C. schultzei/aeneus variant that occurs naturally in the wild, it is nothing like the fish we refer to as the Blacks.

That was short and sweet. I left lots out.

I hope that helps.

 

[Dorkhedeos]

Thanks, im not as confused anymore