Hypostomus plecostomus

Hypostomus plecostomus, the suckermouth catfish or common pleco, ('hypo' = under, 'stoma' = mouth, 'pleco'= pleated) is a tropical fishbelonging to the armored catfish family (Loricariidae), named for the armor-like longitudinal rows of scutes that cover the upper parts of the head and body (the lower surface of head and abdomen is naked). Although the name Hypostomus plecostomus is often used to refer to common plecostomussold in aquarium shops, most are actually members of other genera.[8][1]

Suckermouth catfish are of little or no value as a food fish, although they are at least occasionally consumed over their native range.[citation needed] A demand exists for them, however, in the aquarium trade.[citation needed]