Behaviour
How it lives.
These catfish are generally peaceful and can be kept in community aquariums with other non-aggressive fish species. They are bottom-dwellers and spend most of their time scavenging for food in the substrate.
All fish
Catfish / Aquarium Zone · Ballina
Hoplo Catfish.
Megalechis thoracata
Semi-aggressive, so choose its tankmates with care. Grows to about 10 cm and suits a tank of 30 litres or more.
The fish, up close
More than a beautiful fish.
The Hoplo Catfish, scientifically known as Megalechis thoracata, is a peaceful and hardy freshwater fish popular among aquarium enthusiasts. It features a distinctive armored appearance with a mottled pattern on its body.
Care guide
Build a better match.
Use these notes to shape a setup around the fish, then speak with our team about the tank you have in mind.
Plan your setupTank planning
Set it up well.
Maintain a well-filtered aquarium with hiding spots like caves or driftwood for the Hoplo Catfish to retreat to. They prefer soft, slightly acidic water with a temperature range of 22-26°C.
Practical details
Plan the space and routine.
- Origin
- South America, specifically the Amazon River basin.
- Max Size
- 10 cm
- Diet
- Hoplo Catfish are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods including sinking pellets, frozen or live foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp, and vegetable matter like blanched zucchini or cucumber slices.
- Tank Recommendation
- A minimum tank size of 30 litres is recommended for a small group of Hoplo Catfish to thrive comfortably.
Questions
Plan before you bring one home.
For a specific fish, current stock or a tank setup question, speak with the Aquarium Zone team before travelling.
Contact the storeIs Hoplo Catfish available at Aquarium Zone in Ballina?
Aquarium Zone regularly helps customers find freshwater fish in Ballina and across the Northern Rivers. Stock changes week to week, so contact the store before visiting if you are looking for Hoplo Catfish.
Can Aquarium Zone help me decide if Hoplo Catfish suits my aquarium?
Yes. Bring your tank size, current fish list, setup photos, and any water test results so the team can help with compatibility, stocking, and care advice.
What tank size does Hoplo Catfish need?
Hoplo Catfish is listed with this tank recommendation: A minimum tank size of 30 litres is recommended for a small group of Hoplo Catfish to thrive comfortably. Ask in-store for advice based on your exact setup and tank mates.
Do you serve customers outside Ballina?
Yes. Aquarium Zone serves aquarium hobbyists from Ballina, Lennox Head, Alstonville, Wollongbar, Bangalow, Byron Bay, Lismore, Evans Head, Mullumbimby, Casino and the wider Northern Rivers.
Aquarium Zone / Ballina
Choose with confidence.
Looking for Hoplo Catfish? Contact us to confirm current availability and discuss whether it suits your aquarium before making the trip.
18 Southern Cross DriveBallina NSW 2478
(02) 6686 0002