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Hog-Nosed Brochis
Hog-Nosed Brochis
Origin
South America
Habitat Size
50 - 150 liters
Water Type
Fresh Water
Water Temperature
6º-7.5ºC
Cost in India
₹80 - ₹150
Size
3.5 - 4 inches (Small)
Diet
Omnivore
by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 25 Nov 2025
Hog-Nosed Brochis Fish Guide
The Hog-Nosed Brochis (Brochis multiradiatus) is a funny little catfish with a long nose that looks like a pig’s snout. It has shiny, green-bronze scales and grows to a size where it’s fun to watch in a community fish tank. It’s special because it’s peaceful, bottom-dwelling, and likes to hang out in groups.
Hog-Nosed Brochis Origin
- Comes from South America, including Ecuador and Peru, within the western Amazon basin.
- It lives within slow rivers, streams, and floodplains. Its habitat can be sandy or muddy bottoms, such as leaf litter and plants used for hiding.
- Scientists have debated about the genus to which it belongs, within Brochis vs Corydoras. However, the taxonomic history dictates that it is accepted again as Brochis multiradiatus.
Temperament
- Very peaceful — does not fight or bully other fish
- Shy and quiet, especially when alone; feels safer when in groups of its own kind
- Active at the bottom of the tank — likes digging, foraging in the sand with its whisker-like barbels.
Compatibility
Good tank mates include:
- Tetras
- Rasboras
- Guppies
- Dwarf gouramis
- Other Corydoras/Brochis species
Avoid
- Avoid fish that chase or nip fins, or very large predators that may see them as food.
- They do well in a group (shoal) of at least 5 or 6 Hog-Nosed Brochis, so they feel calm and behave normally.
Hog-Nosed Brochis Price Range
- ₹2,500 - ₹5,000 (for moderate-sized fish)
Characteristics
Temperament
Aggressive
Friendly
Compatibility with other fishes
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Habitat Size
Small
Large
Hog-Nosed Brochis Habitat Requirements
Initial Setup Cost
₹4,000 - ₹12,000
Water Temperature
6º -7.5ºC
Water Type
Fresh Water
PH Level
6 - 7.5
Hog-Nosed Brochis Tank Type
- Freshwater community aquarium. They are true freshwater fish, not brackish or marine.
Aquarium Size
- About 60 litres (15–20 US gallons) for a small group (4–6 fish)
- Bigger is better because they are active and like to swim along the bottom
Water Conditions
- Temperature: 22–27°C (72–80°F)
- pH level: mildly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.5)
- Hardness: soft to moderately hard water (15 dGH)
Environment Needs
- Use soft sand or very fine gravel so their barbels don’t get damaged
- Add leaf litter, driftwood, and smooth rocks for hiding and foraging
- Provide live or silk plants and quiet filter flow — they don’t like very strong currents
- Dimmer lighting and shaded spots help them feel safe
Essential Equipment
Aquarium tank
Water filter
Heater
Light
Substrate
Decor
Hog-Nosed Brochis Nutritional Guide
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹80 - ₹ 150
Hog-Nosed Brochis Diet Type
- Omnivore — they eat both animal and plant material but prefer meaty foods.
Suitable Foods
- Sinking pellets or wafers made for bottom feeders
- Frozen or live foods: bloodworms, daphnia, brine shrimp (small pieces)
- Occasional blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber), finely chopped
- They will also sift small bits of leftover flakes that reach the bottom
Feeding Frequency & Tips
- Feed small amounts 1–2 times a day
- Give only what they can eat in a few minutes to keep water clean
- Use sinking food so it reaches them quickly. In a group, make sure weaker fish still get food by scattering some pieces.
Hog-Nosed Brochis Health & Care
Common Health Issues
Fin rot
White spot / ick
Fungus
Bacterial infections
Swim bladder disease
Parasites
Signs of good health
Active
Bright coloration
Good apetite
Signs of sickness
Loss of appetite
Dull coloring
Tattered fins
Lethargic behaviour
White growths
Common Health Issues
- Barbel damage from rough substrate or poor water quality
- Typical freshwater illnesses, like ich or bacterial infections, occur if the water is poor or the fish are stressed
Symptoms to Watch
- Not eating
- Hiding more than usual
- Torn or frayed barbels
- White spots
- Clamped fins
- Red patches
Treatment
- Keep water clean with regular water changes and a good filter
- Move sick fish to a quarantine tank if possible
- Use medicines targeted to the illness (antiparasitic or antibacterial) and follow product directions carefully.
Hog-Nosed Brochis General Health Tips
- Use soft sand to protect barbels
- Test water regularly (ammonia, nitrite, nitrate)
- Keep them in groups (at least 4–6) so they feel secure and are less stressed.
Prerequisites for a Fish
Adequate tank space
Enriching Environment
Cleanliness
Effort & commitment
Written by
Happy Pet TeamAuthor
Team Happy Pet is a passionate collective of pet experts, enthusiasts, and advocates dedicated to sharing trusted and insightful content.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank is best for Brochis multiradiatus?
A minimum tank size of 30 gallons (100 liters) is recommended.
Can Brochis multiradiatus be kept with other fish?
Yes, they are peaceful and do well in community tanks with other non-aggressive fish.
What is the ideal water temperature for Brochis multiradiatus?
The ideal water temperature range is 22°C to 28°C.
How often should I feed Brochis multiradiatus?
They should be fed once or twice a day in small amounts they can consume within a few minutes.