Dwarf Spotted Hoplisoma

Remarks: The dwarf spotted Hoplisoma is a dwarf Corydoradinae that barely reaches 1.25" at full length, only slightly larger than the more common pygmy 𝐺𝑎𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑜𝑑𝑒𝑟𝑚𝑢𝑠. Being so small, they tend to be more nervous and thus should be kept in groups of 8 or more with them typically being more brave the larger their school is. Their bodies are light tan or silver with a broken black line along their lateral line, a large black dot at the base of the caudal fin, small black spots on the top of their head and body, and faint black stripes across their mostly clear fins. Dwarf spotted Hoplisoma can be found in both Colombia and Venezuela in small, slow flowing tributaries and lagoons.

  The dwarf spotted Hoplisoma was previously classified as Corydoras habrosus, but was reclassified as Hoplisoma habrosum upon publication of a phylogenomic analysis in 2024 that reclassified many species in the Corydoradinae subfamily.

  Corydoradinae are small, peaceful catfish that are active shoalers and will stay near conspecifics, making for a lovely sight. They feed by searching through sand with their barbels, making such a substrate necessary for their long-term health. Gravel substrates tend to be abrasive and damage the barbels, leading to infections and an inability to find food.

  While these friendly catfish are willing to swim with other species of Corydoradinae different from their own, this does not provide the same social need as being kept with members of their own species. Because of this, it is highly recommended to keep at least six of each species of Corydoradinae present in the aquarium and only mix species if one has the space to keep at least six of each.

  Corydoradinae are often looked at as "scavengers," but they should be treated in a similar fashion as the rest of your fish. They are omnivores and require a mixed diet. Sinking prepared foods are readily accepted, as are frozen and live foods such as brine shrimp, blackworms, and bloodworms.