Scoloplax: From the Greek skolos, meaning thorn and plax, meaning
plate; in reference to the moveable dermal bone on top of snout
(rostral plate) that is studded with large integumentary teeth.
Identification
Species of the neotropical family Scoloplacidae are distinguished from other Siluriformes by the presence of a conspicuous shield-shaped rostral plate bearing numerous large and recurved odontodes. Scoloplacidae is a monogeneric family endemic to South America and known from the Amazon, Paraguay, and Parana basins. The worlds smallest known catfish are from this genus, the smallest is most likely S. dolicholophia.
Sexing
Larger male specimens with large, fleshy tissue at ventral opening. Females without tissue sack.
Breeding
Unreported in the aquarium.
Size
Smallest 12mm, largest 20mm, average 15mm, most commonly 16mm. All SL.