Port Hoplo Catfish
Live Fish
Shipping & Returns
All live fish are shipped using NZPost overnight services with authority to leave (no signature).
We cannot guarantee the overnight services, this is a service that we/you pay for; but is not guaranteed.
We DO NOT offer returns on any alive animal.
Above are key points of our policy, Click Here to read our full shipping policy.
Dead On Arrival (DOA) Cover*
- DOA must be reported within 2 hours of delivery.
- Bags must remain sealed (do not remove rubber band or tape)
- Photos & Videos must be supplied this can be emailed or sent through live chat; including your order No. (minimum 3 clear images, showing dead fish & sealed bag)
- DOA does not apply once the bags are opened & fish have been released.
- DOA does not apply to any Rural (RD) address.
Introducing New Fish
Follow these steps to minimize stress and ensure a smooth transition for your new fish!
-
Float the Bag: Place the sealed bag containing the new fish in the tank. This equalizes the temperature between bag and tank water.
-
Open and Add Tank Water Gradually: After about 5 minutes, open the bag and add a small amount of aquarium water into it every 5 minutes for 15–30 minutes. This helps the fish acclimate to the tank’s water chemistry.
-
Wait 15–30 Minutes: Let the fish adjust to the water temperature and chemistry gradually in the bag.
-
Release Fish: Gently release the fish into the tank without pouring the original bag water in.
Port Hoplo Catfish
The hoplo is not a particularly shy catfish but will still appreciate some cover in the form of rocks, plants and rock. Water flow should be slow or still, although the fish will adapt to stronger conditions. Sandy or fine gravel should be provided as the fish enjoys rooting through the substrate in search of food. Lighting is not critical and should be tailored to suit the plants used.
Species Overview
-
Scientific Name: Megalechis thoracata
-
Common Names: Port Hoplo Catfish, Spotted Hoplo, Black Marble Hoplo
-
Family: Callichthyidae
-
Origin: Amazon, Orinoco, and upper Paraguay River basins; coastal rivers of the Guianas and northern Brazil
-
Size: Typically 15–20 cm (6–8 inches) in captivity
-
Lifespan: Up to 10 years with proper care
-
Temperament: Peaceful; may become territorial during breeding
-
Activity: Primarily nocturnal; active bottom-dweller
-
Special Traits: Armored body; capable of intestinal respiration, allowing survival in low-oxygen environments
Aquarium Requirements
-
Tank Size: Minimum 95–190 liters larger tanks preferred for groups
-
Substrate: Soft sand to protect sensitive barbels
-
Decor: Provide hiding spots with driftwood, rocks, and caves; incorporate robust plants like Anubias and Java Fern
-
Lighting: Moderate; floating plants can offer shaded areas
-
Water Parameters:
-
Temperature: 22–30°C (72–86°F)
-
pH: 6.0–8.0
-
Hardness: Up to 20 dGH
-
-
Filtration: Efficient filtration with moderate flow; ensure oxygen-rich water
Diet and Feeding
-
Diet: Omnivorous; accepts a variety of foods including sinking pellets, wafers, live or frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and insect larvae
-
Feeding Behavior: Active forager; feeds primarily at the bottom but may also accept food from mid-water levels
Tank Mates
-
Compatibility: Generally peaceful; suitable for community tanks with similarly sized, non-aggressive species
-
Recommended Tank Mates: Tetras, barbs, rasboras, rainbowfish, Corydoras catfish, and peaceful cichlids like Severums
-
Caution: Avoid housing with very small fish that may be seen as prey or with overly aggressive species
Breeding
-
Reproduction: Bubble-nest builder; males construct nests at the water surface, often among floating plants
-
Spawning Behavior: Males become territorial and may exhibit aggression during breeding
-
Egg Care: Males guard the nest and tend to the eggs, which hatch in approximately 72–96 hours
-
Fry Care: Once hatched, it's advisable to remove the male to prevent predation on the fry; feed fry with microworms or finely crushed flake foo
***Photos for reference only*** If you like updated photo please contact us and we will send you photos/video of actual fish that you are purchasing.
