Definition

Proper noun A taxonomic family within the order Siluriformes, comprising the armored catfishes. These are freshwater catfish native to South America, characterized by bony plates covering their bodies and often a ventral suckermouth adapted for clinging to surfaces in fast-flowing streams.

Usage

The term "Laricariidae" is used in formal, scientific contexts such as biology, ichthyology (the study of fish), taxonomy, and aquarium keeping. It refers to the entire biological family group. * The Laricariidae exhibit a wide range of body shapes and sizes. * Taxonomic studies have helped clarify the evolutionary relationships within Laricariidae.

Examples

• Many popular aquarium "plecos" belong to the family Laricariidae.
• The researcher is specializing in the biogeography of Laricariidae.
• Laricariidae is one of the most species-rich families of catfish.

Advanced Usage

• In phylogenetic classification: The family Laricariidae is often discussed in relation to its sister group or within the larger loricarioid clade.
• In ecological studies: The adaptive radiation of Laricariidae in Neotropical river systems is a subject of significant research.

Variants and Related Words

• Loricarioid (adjective/noun): Pertaining to the superfamily Loricarioidea, which includes Laricariidae and related families. Often used as a broader grouping.
• Loricariid (noun/adjective): A common informal term for a member of the family Laricariidae. Also used as an adjective (e.g., loricariid catfish).
• Armored catfish (common noun): The general English name for fish in this family.
• Plecostomus/Pleco (common noun): A common name for many genera within Laricariidae, especially in the aquarium trade.

Synonyms

• Armored catfish family
• Loricariids (informal)

Notes

• "Laricariidae" is always capitalized as it is a proper noun (a scientific family name).
• In taxonomic hierarchy, it is written in italics: .
• The singular form for a member of this family is "a loricariid" or "an armored catfish." One does not typically say "a Laricariidae."

Noun

1. armored catfish