Gold Stripe Osteogaster

Remarks: Gold stripe Osteogasters are very similar to the ever-popular gold laser Osteogasters, O. sp. CW010. The main differences that sets them apart are that they have a shorter orange stripe beginning at their shoulder than gold lasers do, have rounder bellies, and are less olive colored. With a more copper coloration paired with the same bright orange stripe, these certainly deserve a similar reputation as the gold laser.

  The gold stripe Osteogaster was previously classified as Corydoras sp. CW023, but was reclassified as Osteogaster sp. CW023 upon publication of a phylogenomic analysis in 2024 that reclassified many species in the Corydoradinae subfamily.

  Corydoradinae are small, peaceful catfish that are active shoalers and will stay near conspecifics, making for a lovely sight. They feed by searching through sand with their barbels, making such a substrate necessary for their long-term health. Gravel substrates tend to be abrasive and damage the barbels, leading to infections and an inability to find food.

  While these friendly catfish are willing to swim with other species of Corydoradinae different from their own, this does not provide the same social need as being kept with members of their own species. Because of this, it is highly recommended to keep at least six of each species of Corydoradinae present in the aquarium and only mix species if one has the space to keep at least six of each.

  Corydoradinae are often looked at as "scavengers," but they should be treated in a similar fashion as the rest of your fish. They are omnivores and require a mixed diet. Sinking prepared foods are readily accepted, as are frozen and live foods such as brine shrimp, blackworms, and bloodworms.