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Hoplisoma gossei, also known as Corydoras gossei, is a small armored freshwater catfish associated with the Rio Maomoré basin in Brazil. It belongs to a group of bottom-dwelling fish valued for their social behavior, constant activity and ability to gently search the substrate with their barbels. This species remains uncommon in the aquarium trade and is mainly sought by aquarists interested in less frequently offered Corydoras relatives. Like other members of its family, it should be kept in a group, over a non-abrasive substrate and in clean, stable, well-oxygenated water.

General species description

Hoplisoma gossei is a peaceful, social bottom fish adapted to life over soft substrates in tropical streams. It spends much of its time searching the bottom, but it also regularly rises to the surface to take atmospheric air, a normal behavior among many Callichthyidae. In an aquarium, it should be kept in a group of at least six individuals, which encourages natural behavior and reduces shyness. This species is uncommon in the trade, making it an interesting choice for a South American community aquarium or regional biotope setup. It is not suitable for aggressive, very large or highly boisterous fish that could stress it or outcompete it for food.

Geographical origin and biotope

The species is associated with the Rio Maomoré in the Brazilian Amazon basin. Its natural environment includes shallow areas that are generally calm or moderately flowing, where the fish can sift through fine deposits while searching for small prey. The biotope includes tropical vegetation along the banks, shaded areas and accumulations of leaves, roots and plant debris. To recreate this setting in an aquarium, provide soft to moderately mineralized water, efficient filtration, subdued lighting and shelter made from wood or plants. A fine sand substrate is preferable because it protects the barbels during feeding and natural foraging.

Precise location and local name

The geographical reference supplied for Hoplisoma gossei is the Rio Maomoré in Brazil. This places the species within a tropical river network connected to the Amazon basin, but it does not identify a particular tributary, municipality or collection locality. In the aquarium hobby, it is mainly known by its scientific name, Hoplisoma gossei, or by its former name Corydoras gossei. The term Corydoras remains widely used in the trade even though current classification places the species in the genus Hoplisoma. Both names are useful when searching for information, since availability lists, aquarium references and species databases may use either designation.

Appearance and physical characteristics

Hoplisoma gossei has the typical shape of a small armored catfish: a stocky body, rounded belly, ventral mouth surrounded by barbels and pectoral fins equipped with stiff spines. Its rows of bony plates provide protection from many predators. The overall coloration is suited to life on the bottom and helps it blend among sand, leaves and plant debris. The sensitive barbels are important for locating food. As in several related species, an adult female is generally broader and heavier than a male, especially when carrying eggs. Direct handling should be avoided because the fin spines can become caught in a net.

General diet

In nature, Hoplisoma gossei feeds on small bottom-dwelling organisms, insect larvae, tiny crustaceans and other edible particles found in the substrate. In an aquarium, its diet should be varied and delivered near the bottom: quality sinking tablets, suitable pellets, frozen foods and occasional small live foods. Bloodworms, brine shrimp and daphnia can help stimulate feeding, especially after acclimation. Do not rely on leftovers from other fish or treat this species as a cleaner. Several small feedings are preferable to one large distribution. The sand should be kept clean, although a modest amount of natural organic material can support its normal foraging behavior.

Essential data

• Original river: Rio Maomoré
• Local name used: Corydoras gossei
• Origin of the scientific name: The specific name gossei is associated with the scientific name of the species.
• Etymology of the full name: Hoplisoma is the current genus name; gossei is the specific epithet.
• Common/vernacular names: Corydoras gossei; Gosse’s Cory
• Family: Callichthyidae
• Subfamily: Corydoradinae
• Pronunciation: hop-lih-SOH-mah GOH-see
• Discovery: Name and year not provided.
• Maximum adult size: Approximately 5 cm
• Water temperature and pH: Approximately 22 to 27 °C; pH roughly 6.0 to 7.5
• Appearance of the watercourse and surrounding vegetation: Tropical watercourse bordered by vegetation, with shaded areas, leaves, roots and plant debris.
• Typical tankmates: Small peaceful characins, small pencilfish, other peaceful Corydoras and small non-territorial loricariids.
• Temperament and behavior: Peaceful, social, active on the bottom and occasionally inclined to make quick trips to the surface.
• Water depth: Shallow to moderate
• Sexual dimorphism: Female generally broader and more robust; male more slender.
• Bottom structure and current: Fine sand, plant litter and low to moderate flow.
• Captive status: Wild-collected species.
• Availability: Exclusive to Ton.Fish in Canada.

In your aquarium

Success with Hoplisoma gossei depends on stable water, a fine sand bottom and keeping the fish in a group. Provide hiding places, gentle but effective filtration and food that truly reaches the substrate. Avoid sharp gravel, harsh treatments and overly boisterous tankmates. Because this is a wild-collected and uncommon species, gradual acclimation and an observation period are especially sensible.