These fish have bony plates covering the head and body dorsally; their ventral part is bare. Their mouth is spherical, with a pair of small barbels. They feed on algae and small crustaceans.

They lay their eggs on smooth rocks, which are kept by one or both parents.

Interesting facts

Most aquarium hobbyists use them to keep the aquarium clean of algae, as these fish feed on algae and on the remains of food.

Conservation status