Fin's Fish Guide
The Hoplo catfish (Megalechis thoracata) is a freshwater fish of the family Callichthyidae that grows up to 16 cm.
South America; calm, often oxygen-poor waters of the Amazon and Orinoco basins.
Description
The hoplo catfish is a South American armoured catfish of the family Callichthyidae from the Amazon and Orinoco basins and the Guianas. The species grows to about 16 cm and has a stocky body armoured with two rows of overlapping bony plates, and two pairs of barbels. It inhabits quiet, often oxygen-poor waters and can breathe air through its gut, gulped at the surface. As an omnivore it searches the bottom for invertebrates, worms and plant matter. The male builds a foam nest and guards the brood. The stout pectoral spines can prick; otherwise the species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hoplo catfish?
The Hoplo catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Armoured with bony plates; breathes air through the intestine and builds a foam nest for the brood.
Where does the Hoplo catfish live?
The Hoplo catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America; calm, often oxygen-poor waters of the Amazon and Orinoco basins.
How big does the Hoplo catfish get?
The Hoplo catfish grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the Hoplo catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Hoplo catfish is harmless to humans. The stout, sharp fin spines can cause painful puncture or cut wounds; handle the fish with care. Clean the wound, let it bleed, and seek medical care if pain or infection increases.
Is the Hoplo catfish edible?
The Hoplo catfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Callichthyidae
Want the complete picture on the Hoplo catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hoplo catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.