False Bandit Hoplisoma

Remarks:  The false bandit hoplisoma, (Hoplisoma melini) is named for its similarity to the bandit Hoplisoma, (Hoplisoma metae). One easy way to distinguish between the two species is by examining the black line that begins in their dorsal fin and runs along their back. True bandit Hoplisoma have a line that travels along the edge of their back until it reaches the caudal peduncle, where it makes a sharp turn and runs vertically. In false bandit Hoplisoma, this line travels perfectly straight from the dorsal fin to the bottom of the caudal peduncle. It was previously classified as Corydoras melini, but was reclassified as Hoplisoma melini 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.