Cheiridodus Eigenmann, 1922 Cochliodon Heckel, 1854 Plecostomus Gronovius, 1754 Watawata Isbrücker & Michels, 2001 Hypostomus is a genus of catfish in the family Loricariidae.

[6] Studies conducted with representatives of some genera of Hypostominae showed that within this group, the diploid number ranges from 2n = 52 to 2n = 80.

However, the supposed wide karyotypic diversity that the family Loricariidae or the subfamily Hypostominae would present is almost exclusively restricted to the genus Hypostomus and the species from the other genera had a conserved diploid number.

[2] Maximum diversity in number of species of Hypostomus occurs in rivers of the Paraná-Paraguay system.

Members of this genus may be found over a range of substrates such mud, detritus, gravel, and sand.

The comb-toothed inferior mouth of Hypostomus is able to grasp green algae on the river bottom.

With the help of the suckermouth, which anchor the fishes, in conjunction with the arched design of pectoral and pelvic fin spines, they are also able to remain upright while exploring this substratum.

Their colouration is typically dark brown with spots generally developed over most surfaces; however, most species of this group have been observed to have a well-developed ability to alter color according to substrate.

[11] Along with Panaque, species of the H. cochliodon group are unique among loricariids for xylophagy, or the ability to digest wood, accomplished through specialized spoon-shaped teeth.