Port Hoplo (Megalechis thoracata)

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Port Hoplo

Megalechis thoracata.jpg
Port Hoplo

Megalechis thoracata

132 Litres (35 US G.)

11-13 cm (4.3-5.1")

sg

Freshwater

pH

6.5 - 7.5

23 -25 °C (73.4-77°F)

8-12 °d

1:1 M:F

Omnivore
Pellet Foods
Flake Foods

4-8 years

Family

Callichthyidae



Additional names

Port Hoplo, Armoured Catfish, Hoplo

Additional scientific names

Callichthys exaratus, Callichthys personatus, Hoplosternum personatus, Hoplosternum thoracatum surinamensis, Megalechis personata


Origin[edit]

South America: Amazon, Orinoco and upper Paraguay River basins, as well as coastal rivers of the Guianas and northern Brazil.


Sexing[edit]

A mature male has a thickened first pectoral ray which varies from orange/brown to scarlet in colour.


Tank compatibility[edit]

A peaceful fish that does well in company of its own kind. Can be boisterous at feeding time so keep with robust tankmates only.


Diet[edit]

Will accept a variety of foods including sinking catfish tablets and bloodworm.


Feeding regime[edit]

Feed once or twice a day.


Environment specifics[edit]

Not fussy about tank set up, originates from small ponds that are low in oxygen and have little current, but this fish is flexible towards it's environment.


Behaviour[edit]

Generally peaceful but can be boisterous.


Identification[edit]

More Loach-like in appearance than catfish, this fish is mottled grey in colour and can be mistaken for the similar Megalechis picta. The difference being the absence of a conspicuous dark vertical band in the caudal fin in the M.thoracata.

Pictures[edit]

External links[edit]