Author: Valenciennes, 1840
Remark: 12S and 16S mitochondrial rRNA gene sequences used in a molecular phylogeny of Loricariidae by Montoya-Burgos et al. (1997: fig. 4; EMBL/GenBank Y08289, Y08337). Mitochondrial D-loop sequences used in a molecular phylogeny of <i>Hypostomus</i> and related genera by Montoya-Burgos and Weber (in press, fig. 2; EMBL/GenBank AJ318357).
Comments: In fast-flowing rivers as well as in flooded areas; feeds on algae and detritus (Ref. 13371).  Aquarium keeping:  feeds on plants and roots; minimum aquarium size 120 cm (Ref. 51539).