callichthyid armoured catfish

fish

Also known as: Callichthyidae

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Last updated

July 15, 2026

Quick Summary

Callichthyidae refers to a family of South American armored catfishes, with Callichthys being its type genus. These fish are characterized by two rows of overlapping armor plates on each side of their bodies. Several species within this family, such as Corydoras, are popular as scavengers in tropical aquariums.12

Armored catfishes, in general, are South American species belonging to families like Loricariidae, and they are distinguished by bony plates covering their bodies. Callichthyidae is a family within the order Siluriformes, which encompasses all catfishes.34

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ostariophysan
Annotated classification
Family Callichthyidae (callichthyid armoured catfishes) 2 longitudinal series of overlapping bony plates. Herbivorous aquarium fishes. South and Central America. 8 genera, about 177 species. Family Loricariidae (suckermouth armoured catfishes) Sucking mouth; 3 or 4 rows of bony scutes. Herbivorous aquarium fishes. Central and South America.
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Family Callichthyidae (callichthyid armoured catfishes) 2 longitudinal series of overlapping bony plates. Herbivorous aquarium fishes. South and Central America. 8 genera, about 177 species. Family Loricariidae (suckermouth armoured catfishes) Sucking mouth; 3 or 4 rows of bony scutes. Herbivorous aquarium fishes. Central and South America.
Read More