The Albino Hoplo Catfish (Megalechis thoracata) is a hardy, active, and peaceful freshwater fish known for its striking pinkish-white body and red eyes. Originating from the Amazon basin in South America, they are popular in the aquarium hobby for their "prehistoric" look and efficient scavenging habits.
Key Characteristics
Appearance: They feature two rows of overlapping bony plates (scutes) instead of scales and have two pairs of long whiskers (barbels).
Size & Lifespan: They typically grow to about 15–18 cm (6–7 inches) and can live for 5 to 10 years in captivity.
Unique Adaptation: They are "gut breathers" that can gulp air from the surface, allowing them to survive in oxygen-depleted waters.
Aquarium Care
Tank Size: A minimum of 100–120 litres (approx. 30 gallons) is recommended for a single fish, though larger tanks (55+ gallons) are better for a group.
Substrate: Soft sand or smooth, rounded gravel is essential to prevent damage to their sensitive barbels.
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 22°C – 28°C (72°F – 82°F).
pH: 6.0 – 8.0.
Diet: They are unfussy omnivores that accept sinking pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and even vegetable matter.
Behaviour & Compatibility
Social Nature: They are gregarious and prefer being kept in groups of 3 to 6.
Tank Mates: They are excellent for community tanks with medium-sized fish like Angelfish, Gouramis, Silver Dollars, and larger Tetras.
Warning: They may opportunistically eat very small fish or shrimp (like Neon Tetra fry or dwarf shrimp).
Breeding: They are unusual bubble-nest builders. Males build nests at the surface and can become aggressively territorial while guarding eggs.
SKU: RBM
