Port Hoplo

Megalechis thoracata, formerly Hoplosternum thoracatum, is a smaller relative of the hoplo; adults reach 12–13 cm. Its body is armored with two rows of bony plates and carries scattered dark spots on a gray–brown background. The easiest way to tell it from the hoplo (Hoplosternum littorale) is to look at the tail: in the hoplo the tail is slightly forked, in Megalechis it is square-cut or rounded. It is very hardy because it can take oxygen from the air through its gut; during breeding the male builds a bubble nest at the surface and guards the eggs.

• At least 150 liters for a group of 3–5; a base length of 100 cm or more.
• Sand or fine, rounded gravel; hiding places made of roots and large stones.
• 22–28°C; it adapts to a wide range of pH and hardness; strong filtration is essential.
• It darts to the surface to gulp air; a lidded aquarium and floating plants are recommended.

Omnivorous with a hearty appetite. It accepts large sinking tablets and granules, frozen bloodworms, mosquito larvae and pieces of shrimp. Since it is mostly active in the evening and at night, feeding once the lights go out gives good results.

Generally peaceful; it mostly roams calmly along the bottom. During breeding the male guards his nest determinedly. Because of its size, dwarf shrimp and very small fish are not safe with it.

Good companions: medium to large peaceful fish: large tetras, silver dollars, angelfish, mild-tempered cichlids, plecos, large gouramis.

Avoid: dwarf shrimp, small fish that could fit in its mouth, very aggressive large cichlids that claim the bottom.