Fin's Fish Guide
The Catfish (Brachyplatystoma vaillantii) is a brackish-water fish of the family Pimelodidae that grows up to 150 cm.
South America; Amazon and Orinoco basins, from estuaries to far upstream.
Description
The laulao catfish is a large South American catfish of the family Pimelodidae from the Amazon and Orinoco basins. The species grows to about 1.5 metres and has an elongate, silvery-grey body with a flattened head, long barbels and stout fin spines. It makes one of the longest freshwater migrations in the world: juveniles grow up in the estuaries of the Amazon mouth and migrate thousands of kilometres upstream to spawn. As a predator it hunts fishes and crustaceans. The sharp pectoral and dorsal spines can give painful puncture wounds, so handle the fish with care. It is a very important commercial food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Catfish?
The Catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Makes one of the longest freshwater migrations in the world; large commercial catfish with stinging spines.
Where does the Catfish live?
The Catfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America; Amazon and Orinoco basins, from estuaries to far upstream.
How big does the Catfish get?
The Catfish grows to a maximum of about 150 cm. On average the species is around 80 cm.
Is the Catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Catfish is harmless to humans. The stout, sharp fin spines can cause painful puncture or cut wounds; handle the fish with care. Clean the wound, let it bleed, and seek medical care if pain or infection increases.
Is the Catfish edible?
Yes, the Catfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Brachyplatystoma
More from the family Pimelodidae
Want the complete picture on the Catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.