Hoplisoma sp. Rio Tomo “CW217” – Rare South American Catfish for Planted Aquariums

Hoplisoma sp. Rio Tomo “CW217” is a rare and peaceful armored catfish with elegant body markings, ideal for planted aquariums and calm community tanks.

🌿 Species Overview

• Scientific Name: Hoplisoma sp. “Rio Tomo CW217”

• Common Name: Rio Tomo Hoplisoma, CW217

• Origin: Rio Tomo tributaries, South America (Peru/Brazil Amazon Basin)

• Habitat: Slow-moving, leaf-littered streams with soft substrates

• Temperament: Peaceful, active, and social bottom-dweller

Hoplisoma sp. Rio Tomo “CW217” is a rare and highly sought-after catfish species among Amazonian biotope enthusiasts. Its peaceful nature and striking pattern make it an elegant addition to planted community aquariums.

🎨 Appearance & Coloration

• Small, armored body covered in bony scutes

• Metallic silver to light bronze body

• Distinctive subtle lateral markings along the body

• Transparent to slightly tinted fins

• Prominent barbels (whiskers) used for substrate foraging

The Rio Tomo CW217 displays delicate yet noticeable patterns, giving it a refined appearance compared to common Corydoras-type catfish.

📏 Size & Lifespan

• Adult Size: 4–5 cm (1.5–2 inches)

• Lifespan: 4–6 years with proper care

They are slightly smaller than Brochis species but form active shoals, creating a dynamic bottom-level display.

💧 Water Conditions

Hoplisoma sp. Rio Tomo “CW217” prefers soft, slightly acidic to neutral water:

• Temperature: 23°C – 28°C

• pH: 5.5 – 7.0

• Hardness: 2–10 dGH

• Water Flow: Gentle

• Filtration: Sponge or low-flow canister filter

• Environment: Planted aquariums with fine sand substrate and leaf litter

Soft sand or fine gravel is essential to protect delicate barbels during foraging.

🏡 Tank Setup Recommendations

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons for a small shoal of 6–8

• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel

• Lighting: Low to moderate

• Plants: Java fern, Anubias, Cryptocoryne, floating plants

• Decor: Driftwood, leaf litter, rocks, and caves

Shoaling behavior is crucial; keeping at least 6 individuals promotes natural activity and reduces stress.

🐟 Tank Mates Compatibility

Hoplisoma sp. Rio Tomo “CW217” is peaceful and works well in community aquariums with other calm species.

Compatible Tank Mates:

• Small tetras (neon, ember, cardinal)

• Rasboras

• Small peaceful dwarf cichlids (Apistogramma)

• Other peaceful catfish (Corydoras, Otocinclus)

Avoid:

• Aggressive or predatory fish

• Large cichlids or fin-nippers

🍽 Feeding Habit

• Omnivorous bottom-dweller

• Diet Recommendations:

  • Sinking catfish pellets or wafers

  • Frozen foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp

  • Live foods: daphnia, blackworm

  • Occasional blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber)

Feed 1–2 times daily in small portions. CW217 actively searches the substrate, making its behavior highly engaging for aquarists.

🛠 Care Level

• Difficulty: Intermediate

• Requires stable water parameters and soft substrate

• Sensitive to poor water quality

• Suitable for aquarists experienced with South American biotope species

Weekly 20–30% water changes are recommended to maintain health, coloration, and natural activity.

🌟 Why Choose Hoplisoma sp. Rio Tomo “CW217”?

• Rare and elegant armored catfish with subtle patterning

• Peaceful, active, and social shoaling behavior

• Ideal for planted aquariums and community setups

• Easy to maintain with proper water conditions

• Highly collectible and sought-after among Amazonian biotope enthusiasts

Hoplisoma sp. Rio Tomo “CW217” is a charming, peaceful, and visually refined bottom-dweller that adds Amazonian authenticity and activity to planted aquariums. Its rare status and graceful behavior make it a prized addition for collectors and hobbyists alike.