3 X HOPLO CATFISH TROPICAL FISH PEACEFUL BOTTOM FEEDER AQUARIUM TANK

Attributes: Peaceful, Bottom Feeder, Tropical Fish
Short Description: 3 X HOPLO CATFISH TROPICAL FISH PEACEFUL BOTTOM FEEDER AQUARIUM TANK

Product Categories: Catfish, Fish

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Dead on Arrival (DOA) Policy: Should any fish arrive deceased, promptly inform us with photographic evidence, and we will refund you or send you a replacement.

Product Description:

Scientific and Common Names:
The Hoplo Catfish, scientifically known as Megalechis thoracata, is a peaceful bottom-feeding tropical fish commonly referred to as the Hoplo Catfish.

Habitat:
Hoplo Catfish are native to South America, specifically the Amazon River basin. They inhabit slow-moving rivers, streams, and flooded areas with dense vegetation.

Tank Setup:
To provide a suitable habitat for Hoplo Catfish, a minimum tank size of 30 gallons is recommended. The tank should be well-filtered with a gentle water flow and have plenty of hiding spots such as caves, driftwood, and plants. Substrate should consist of fine sand or smooth gravel to prevent injury to their delicate barbels.

Diet and Nutrition:
Hoplo Catfish are omnivorous and primarily feed on small invertebrates, insects, worms, and plant matter in the wild. In captivity, they can be fed a varied diet including high-quality sinking pellets, frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and vegetable matter like blanched spinach or zucchini.

Size and Growth Rate:
Adult Hoplo Catfish can reach a size of around 4-5 inches (10-12 cm) in length. They have a relatively slow growth rate and may take a few years to reach their full size.

Behavioral Traits:
Hoplo Catfish are peaceful and generally get along well with other non-aggressive fish species. They are primarily bottom-dwellers and spend most of their time scavenging for food. They are known to be shy and may hide during the day, becoming more active during the evening and night.

Care Level:
Hoplo Catfish are considered relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for beginner and experienced aquarists alike. They require a well-maintained aquarium with regular water changes and a balanced diet.

Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding Hoplo Catfish in captivity can be challenging. They are egg-layers and require specific conditions, such as soft and slightly acidic water, to trigger spawning. Providing suitable spawning sites like caves or PVC pipes can encourage breeding behavior. After spawning, the parents should be removed to prevent them from eating the eggs.

Health and Disease Prevention:
To maintain the health of Hoplo Catfish, it is important to provide them with a clean and well-maintained aquarium. Regular water testing, proper filtration, and a balanced diet can help prevent common diseases. Quarantining new fish before introducing them to the main tank can also help prevent the spread of diseases.

Optimal Water Conditions:
Hoplo Catfish prefer water temperatures between 72-79°F (22-26°C) and a pH range of 6.5-7.5. They thrive in soft to moderately hard water with a dGH (general hardness) of 5-15.

Lifespan:
With proper care, Hoplo Catfish can live for 5-8 years or even longer in captivity.

Additional Interesting Facts:
– Hoplo Catfish have a unique defense mechanism where they can lock their pectoral fins in an upright position, making it difficult for predators to swallow them.
– They have a peaceful nature, making them suitable for community aquariums with other non-aggressive fish species.
– Hoplo Catfish are known for their ability to clean up leftover food and detritus from the aquarium substrate, contributing to the overall cleanliness of the tank.
– They have a distinctive appearance with a mottled pattern of dark brown or black spots on a light brown or beige body, providing natural camouflage in their native habitats.