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Hoplisoma schwartzi CW-028, also known as Super Schwartzi, is a small South American catfish valued for its elegant appearance and peaceful behavior. The aquarium form sold under the code CW-028 corresponds to the Schwartzi commonly encountered in the hobby and is generally associated with Hoplisoma schwartzi. It originates from the Rio Purus in Brazil, where it inhabits calm, shallow areas of Amazonian waterways. Like other Corydoradinae, it spends most of its time near the bottom, exploring the substrate with its barbels. The fish offered in this selection are wild-collected, so careful acclimation and stable water conditions are especially important.

General species description

Hoplisoma schwartzi CW-028 is a schooling bottom-dwelling catfish in the family Callichthyidae, within the subfamily Corydoradinae. It should be kept in a group, preferably with several specimens of the same species, to encourage natural behavior and reduce stress. It is active in short periods, searches through the substrate, rests on the bottom and may occasionally make quick trips to the surface to gulp atmospheric air, a normal behavior in several Corydoradinae. Its temperament is peaceful and social, making it suitable for a carefully planned community aquarium. It is nevertheless sensitive to accumulated waste and abrasive substrates. Its availability is moderate: it is less common than highly popular captive-bred Corydoras, but remains sought after by specialist aquarists.

Geographic origin and biotope

Hoplisoma schwartzi CW-028 is associated with the Rio Purus, an important Amazon tributary in Brazil. In this region, it inhabits shallow sections where the current is generally slow to moderate. The bottom consists of fine sand and plant debris, with roots, fallen leaves and submerged branches providing shelter. The water may be stained by organic material, especially in forested areas, while riparian vegetation creates substantial cover above the stream. In the aquarium, the most useful features to recreate are gentle but effective filtration, open bottom space, several hiding places and subdued lighting provided by floating plants or dense vegetation. Regular water changes are essential because this fish benefits from clean, well-oxygenated water.

Precise location and local name

The reference locality for Hoplisoma schwartzi CW-028 is in the Rio Purus basin in Brazil. In the aquarium trade, it is mainly called Super Schwartzi, while the code CW-028 is used to distinguish this form in collection lists and by specialist breeders. The name Corydoras schwartzi is also still widely used, although the accepted genus is now Hoplisoma. In the field, catfish populations are usually identified through their morphology and drainage basin rather than by one unique vernacular name. To prevent mix-ups, it is best to keep provenance records with each group, particularly when fish are wild-caught. This traceability helps preserve the geographic form and avoid accidental hybridization in aquaria.

Appearance and physical characteristics

The body of Hoplisoma schwartzi CW-028 is short, deep and covered with bony plates, as in other members of the Callichthyidae. Its base color is generally pale, silver to beige, with a distinctive dark marking around the eye and a contrasting pattern across the head and back. The dorsal fin commonly shows dark markings, while the other fins are translucent to slightly yellowish. The barbels around the mouth help it locate food in the substrate; they are delicate and should be protected with a very fine bottom material. The form known as Super Schwartzi is sought after for its strong contrast and refined appearance. As with many armored catfish, the pectoral spines can catch in a net, so a container or carefully handled net is preferable when moving the fish.

General diet

Hoplisoma schwartzi CW-028 is an omnivore with a detritivore tendency, searching the bottom for small prey and organic particles. Its diet should be varied and offered in small portions so every fish can feed, especially in a large group. Quality sinking wafers, bottom-feeder pellets and frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp and daphnia are suitable. Live foods may stimulate activity and support overall condition, particularly after wild fish have been acclimated. It should not be expected to live on leftovers from other fish, and it does not simply eat aquarium waste. Food that reaches the bottom quickly is important, as is removing excess food. A regular diet rich in protein but balanced with plant ingredients supports growth and vitality without placing unnecessary pressure on water quality.

Essential data

• Native river: Rio Purus
• Local name used: Super Schwartzi; CW-028
• Origin of the scientific name: The genus Hoplisoma is the current taxonomic placement; the species epithet schwartzi commemorates a person named Schwartz.
• Etymology of the full name: Hoplisoma comes from the Greek hoplon, armor or shield, and soma, body; schwartzi is a species name derived from Schwartz.
• Common/vernacular names: Super Schwartzi; Schwartzi Cory; Corydoras schwartzi
• Family: Callichthyidae
• Subfamily: Corydoradinae
• Name pronunciation: hop-lih-SO-ma shwart-see
• Discovery: Rössel, 1963
• Maximum adult size: About 5 cm
• Water temperature and pH: 22 to 27 °C; pH 6.0 to 7.5
• Stream appearance and surrounding vegetation: Shallow areas with slow to moderate flow, sand, fallen leaves, roots and forested riparian vegetation
• Typical tankmates: Hoplisoma panda; Brochis splendens; small peaceful Amazonian characins
• Temperament and behavior: Peaceful, schooling and bottom-oriented; keep in a group
• Water depth: Shallow to moderate
• Sexual dimorphism: Females are usually broader and heavier-bodied; differences are clearer when viewed from above
• Bottom structure and flow: Fine sand, leaves and plant debris; slow to moderate current

In your aquarium

For successful care of Hoplisoma schwartzi CW-028, keep a group of at least six, provide a fine sand substrate and maintain clean, stable, well-oxygenated water. Regular water changes, shaded areas and sinking food offered after the lights are partially dimmed will help newly acclimated fish resume natural habits. Avoid aggressive tankmates and sharp gravel that may damage their barbels. Since these are wild-collected fish, gradual acclimation and a careful quarantine procedure are especially advisable.