Megalechis thoracata

Alternative names

 * Port Hoplo, ,

Sexing

 * A mature male has a thickened first pectoral ray which varies from orange/brown to scarlet in colour.

Tank compatibility

 * A peaceful fish that does well in company of its own kind. Can be boisterous at feeding time so keep with robust tankmates only.

Diet

 * Will accept a variety of foods including sinking catfish tablets and bloodworm.

Feeding regime

 * Feed once or twice a day.

Environment Specifics

 * Not fussy about tank set up, originates from small ponds that are low in oxygen and have little current, but this fish is flexible towards it's environment.

Behaviour

 * Generally peaceful but can be boisterous.

Identification

 * More Loach-like in appearance than catfish, this fish is mottled grey in colour and can be mistaken for the similar Megalechis picta. The difference being the absence of a conspicuous dark vertical band in the caudal fin in the M.thoracata.