Hoplo Catfish

Scientific Name

Megalechis thoracata
(Note: Previously categorized under Hoplosternum thoracatum).

Common Names

• Hoplo Catfish
• Armored Catfish
• Brown Hoplo

Physical Appearance

• Size: Grows up to 6 inches (15 cm).
• Coloration:
  • Brown or olive-colored body with a mottled or speckled pattern.
  • A lighter underside contrasts with darker patterns on the back.
  • Males display more vibrant colors and may develop a thickened pectoral fin spine during breeding.
• Body Shape: Sturdy, elongated body covered in bony plates (hence the “armored” descriptor).

Lifespan

• 5–10 years with proper care.

Temperament and Behavior

• Nature: Peaceful, social, and hardy.
• Group Dynamics: While they can be kept alone, they thrive in groups of 3 or more.
• Activity Level:
  • Active during the day and night.
  • Known for their entertaining scavenging and occasional trips to the surface for a gulp of air (they have a specialized labyrinth organ for breathing air).
• Role in Tank: Efficient scavenger that helps clean uneaten food and debris.

Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons for a single specimen; larger for groups.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 70–82°F (21–28°C)
  • pH: 6.0–8.0
  • Hardness: 5–20 dGH
• Substrate: Soft sand or smooth gravel to protect their barbels.
• Plants and Decorations:
  • Provide hiding spots with driftwood, caves, or PVC pipes.
  • Open swimming areas are essential, as they are active swimmers.
• Filtration: Moderate to strong water flow with good oxygenation.

Diet

• Type: Omnivorous.
• Food:
  • Sinking pellets or wafers as the main diet.
  • Live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, or blackworms.
  • Blanched vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or peas.
  • Occasional treats of algae wafers.

Compatibility

• Good Tank Mates:
  • Peaceful species like tetras, barbs, gouramis, angelfish, or rainbowfish.
  • Larger bottom-dwellers like Corydoras or plecos.
  • Non-aggressive species of similar size or smaller.
• Avoid: Large, aggressive cichlids or fin-nipping species like tiger barbs in small tanks.

Care Level

• Difficulty: Easy; excellent for beginner to intermediate aquarists.
• Maintenance:
  • Weekly water changes of 20–30%.
  • Keep the tank well-aerated and free of excess debris.

Breeding

• Reproduction: Bubble-nest builders (unusual among catfish).
• Setup:
  • Breeding tank with calm water, floating plants, and slightly warmer water (75–80°F).
  • Males build bubble nests near the surface, often using floating debris for structure.
• Process:
  • Males court females and guard the nest after eggs are deposited.
  • Once hatched, fry can be fed infusoria or finely crushed fry food.
• Note: Males are protective and may display mild aggression during breeding.

Interesting Facts

1. Air-Breathing Ability: Hoplo Catfish can gulp air and use their labyrinth organ to extract oxygen, enabling them to survive in low-oxygen environments.
2. Durability: They are highly adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions.
3. Behavior: They often exhibit playful behaviors, such as burrowing or interacting with tank mates