珍珠鼠 · Sterba's Cory

Overview

Light spots over a dark head identify the familiar pattern of Hoplisoma sterbai. Most traded fish are farm-bred, including an albino form. This peaceful catfish is generally a relatively straightforward breeding subject when kept well.

Distribution & habitat

It is native to Bolivia and Brazil, with the type specimen from the Guaporé. Habitats include small tributaries, creeks, pools, and flooded forest. Commercial production localities should not be confused with that native range.

Aquarium setup

A small group can use a setup around 45 by 30 by 30 cm at 24–28 °C. Sand, wood, roots, and leaves under subdued light provide cover. Replace aging leaves before decay affects water quality. A maintained planted tank is also suitable. Avoid undergravel filtration and keep the substrate clean.

Diet & feeding

Use sinking pellets or tablets as the staple with varied live and frozen supplements. Feed the group directly rather than relying on community scraps.

Behaviour & compatibility

Keep at least six and choose peaceful companions of suitable size. Avoid large or aggressive fishes.

Sexual dimorphism

Females tend to be slightly larger and broader, with the difference clearest from above when gravid.

Breeding

Use two males per female with sponge filtration and fine plants around 24 °C and pH 6.5. Condition the group on varied foods, then encourage gravid females with a 50–70% cooler-water change and extra oxygenation. Eggs attach in batches to glass or similar surfaces. Separate them from adults and incubate in aerated breeding-tank water, removing fungal eggs. Hatching usually takes three to five days, followed by small live foods after yolk absorption. A thin sand bed appears beneficial for rearing.

Notes

The look-alike Brochis haraldschultzi has dark markings over a pale head and a longer snout. Occasional air gulps supplement respiration; an unusual increase warrants a water-quality check. Pectoral spines can snag netting or puncture skin.