Boeicops

Boeicops is a genus of freshwater fish belonging to the family Loricariidae, commonly known as armored catfish. These fish are native to the Amazon basin in South America. Boeicops are characterized by their distinctive body armor, which consists of rows of bony plates. They typically have a flattened body shape and a ventral mouth adapted for scraping algae and detritus from surfaces.

The genus Boeicops currently contains a small number of recognized species, though taxonomic research is ongoing and may lead to revisions. Species within this genus are generally small to medium-sized, with coloration that often provides camouflage within their natural riverine habitats. They inhabit a variety of freshwater environments, from clearwater streams to more turbid rivers, often preferring areas with submerged wood or rocky substrates.

Like other loricariids, Boeicops are primarily herbivorous or detritivorous. Their specialized mouthparts allow them to graze on biofilm and organic matter. Reproduction in Boeicops is believed to follow the general patterns of armored catfish, with males often guarding eggs laid in protected crevices or caves. Information on their specific behavior, social structure, and ecological role is less extensively documented compared to more commonly kept aquarium species. Their discovery and classification contribute to the understanding of the immense biodiversity within South American freshwater ecosystems.