lati meaning broad and flat, and ceps meaning head.

                    * live bearers

                * oviduct functions until the eggs are fertilized and then changes to 
                           function as a uterus

                * usually bear 4 - 6 offspring at once, with a limit of 12
 
                * usually found in large rivers of the world in tropical and subtropical zones

                * large numbers found in running water in South America, the Amazon, the
                  Orinoco River System, Caribbean watersheds, and rivers in West Africa
 
 
                    * feeds on small fishes, and night crawlers

                * ovoviviparous ( reproduces sexually and gives birth to live young )

                * prefers warm, slightly acidic water conditions

                * unable to adapt or survive in salty conditions