Myer's Hoplo Catfish

Lepthoplosternum pectorale is a somewhat understated member of the Callichthyidae, native to the drainage systems of Paraguay, Bolivia, and northern Argentina — the extensive seasonally flooded Gran Chaco plain. Compared to Hoplosternum and Megalechis, it is a more slender, less heavily armored species with a subtly mottled brown pattern and a more reserved demeanor.

This species shares the family's characteristic intestinal air-breathing ability and can tolerate the warm summer floods and cooler dry-season conditions of its subtropical habitat. In the aquarium it is undemanding and adaptable, eating most sinking foods and tolerating a fairly wide temperature range. It rarely ventures far from the substrate, spending its time sifting sand and investigating plant roots.

Lepthoplosternum pectorale is an excellent choice for a subtropical South American community tank alongside species such as Buenos Aires tetras, Corydoras paleatus, or flag cichlids. It is peaceful, hardy, and interesting to observe during its nocturnal foraging activities.

Water: 18–28°C, pH 6.0–8.0, adaptable to a wide range of hardness. Tank: 120 L minimum; fine sand or smooth gravel; driftwood and PVC pipe hides; robust or artificial plants. Feeding: Sinking pellets, wafers, frozen bloodworm, tubifex, and earthworms; not fussy. Breeding: Bubble nest builder; rarely bred in captivity; similar requirements to other callichthyids. Compatibility: Peaceful; excellent for subtropical community tanks with similarly sized South American species.