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Edit Megalechis thoracata

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Name

Scientific name

Megalechis thoracata

Described by

Not recorded

Family

Callichthyidae

Summary

The spotted hoplo, Megalechis thoracata, is a callichthyid catfish widespread across northern South America, living primarily in still wate…

Size and aquarium

Maximum size

150mm, standard length

Tank size

Minimum length 120 cm, Minimum depth 38 cm, Minimum height 30 cm

Water

Temperature and pH

Temperature 18–28°C, pH 6–8

Hardness

0–20dGH

Conductivity

Not recorded

Behaviour

Temperament

Peaceful

Social needs

Not recorded

Social needs
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Community suitability

Community-safe

Where it lives

Countries

Not recorded

Supporting text

Etymology

Not written yet

Distribution

Widespread across northern South America

Habitat

Primarily still waters

Aquarium size

120 ∗ 38 ∗ 30 cm48 ∗ 15 ∗ 12 in - ~137 litres~36 US gal

Maintenance

The hoplo is not a particularly shy catfish but will still appreciate some cover in the form of rocks, plants and bogwood. Water flow should be slow or still, …

Water conditions

Temperature: 18 – 28 °C64 – 82 °F pH: 6.0 - 8.0 Hardness: Up to 20°H

Diet

Accepts most commercially available foods. Live or frozen foods should also form part of the diet.

Behaviour and compatibility

Peaceful community fish, can be kept with smaller fish such as tetras and barbs. The adaptable and hardy nature of the hoplo means that they can be kept in alm…

Sexual dimorphism

In the male, the leading ray of the pectoral fins is thicker and orangey / yellow in colour. The male also develops a more colourful belly when inbreeding cond…

Reproduction

Bubblenester. The male builds the nest and it is helpful if floating plants are provided to stengthen this. The breeding tank should have very gentle filtratio…

Notes

Still widely referred to as hoplosternum thoracatum the hoplo cat is a popular and hardy fish. These fish have the ability to breathe atmospheric air by gulpin…

References

References

No references