Morocha Hoplisoma

Remarks: The morocha Hoplisoma is an eye-catching species of Corydoradinae with a white body covered in black speckles along with a black mask over their eyes. They are very similar to the fairy Hoplisoma, H. atropersonatum, however the morocha Hoplisoma has distinct spots on the dorsal fin and sometimes the snout, which the fairy Hoplisoma lack. They also appear to have darker, more contrasting spots, a more pointed snout, a greater number of spots, and tend to grow bigger.

  The morocha Hoplisoma was previously classified as Corydoras cf. atropersonatus, but was reclassified as Hoplisoma atropersonatum 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.