Callichthyidae

The family Callichthyidae hails from South America and contains some of the most popular freshwater aquarium fish. They are called "armored catfish" due to the two rows of bony plates (or scutes) running down the length of the body. They are fairly small catfish and range in size from the tiny 3cm Aspidoras pauciradiatus to Hoplosternum littorale which tops out just over 20cm. The habits are varied and include both bottom foraging and mid-water species. Breeding habits are also variable. Most deposit eggs on plants near the surface of the water, but a few build bubble nests.