Spotted hoplo - Megalechis thoracata

Scientific name: Megalechis thoracata

Common name: Spotted hoplo

Family: Callichthyidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 15 - 16 cm (5.91 - 6.3 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 8

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 18°N (71.43 - 321.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 18 - 27 °C (64.4 - 80.6°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Food and feeding

Will accept all foods offered, include in the diet sinking algae wafers and blood worm.

Origin

Spotted hoplo can be found in the Amazon and Orinoco basins in South America, as well as the coastal rivers of Brazil.

Sexing

When mature the male will have a thicker pectoral fin which will be tinged with an orange or scarlet coloration.

Breeding

Spotted hoplo are fish that will build bubble nests for spawning. In the breeding tank provide some floating plants for this purpose. Once the eggs have been laid, remove the female as the male will attack her as it guards the nest. The eggs should hatch after 4 days and the fry will become free swimmers 2 days later. The fry should be fed newly hatched brine shrimp.

Lifespan

Expected lifespan is 4-8 years.

Short description

Megalechis thoracata can tolerate poorer water conditions with low oxygen levels. Although a peaceful species, they can become boisterous at feeding times.

Pictures

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.