Spotted hoplo - Megalechis thoracata
Scientific name: Megalechis thoracata
Common name: Spotted hoplo
Usual size in fish tanks: 15 - 16 cm (5.91 - 6.3 inch)
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.
Spotted hoplo can be found in the Amazon and Orinoco basins in South America, as well as the coastal rivers of Brazil.
When mature the male will have a thicker pectoral fin which will be tinged with an orange or scarlet coloration.
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.
Expected lifespan is 4-8 years.
Megalechis thoracata can tolerate poorer water conditions with low oxygen levels. Although a peaceful species, they can become boisterous at feeding times.
Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.