Fin's Fish Guide
The Catfish (Luciopimelodus pati) is a freshwater fish of the family Pimelodidae that grows up to 103 cm.
Description
The pati catfish is a large freshwater catfish (Pimelodidae) from the La Plata basin of southern South America. The species grows to about 1 metre and has a streamlined, silver-grey body with a broad head, a deeply forked tail and three pairs of long barbels. As a nocturnal predator it swims in large rivers and hunts fish and invertebrates. It is an important food fish. The fish is harmless to humans, though the pectoral and dorsal fin spines can prick.
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. Broad head and three pairs of long barbels; large river catfish
Where does the Catfish live?
The Catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. La Plata basin
How big does the Catfish get?
The Catfish grows to a maximum of about 103 cm.
Is the Catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Catfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Catfish edible?
Yes, the Catfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
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.