Fin's Fish Guide
The Catfish (Pseudoplatystoma tigrinum) is a brackish-water fish of the family Pimelodidae that grows up to 130 cm.
Description
The tiger shovelnose catfish is a large catfish (Pimelodidae) from northern South America. The species has an elongate, silvery-grey body with a flattened, shovel-shaped snout, long barbels and a pattern of dark, tiger-like stripes and spots. It lives in large rivers, mainly upstream of the first rapids to the headwaters of the basin. As a nocturnal apex predator it hunts fishes. It is an important food fish. The stout pectoral and dorsal fin spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Catfish?
The Catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Shovel-shaped snout and tiger-like markings; nocturnal apex-predator catfish with strong fin spines.
Where does the Catfish live?
The Catfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northern South America; large rivers, upstream of the first rapids.
How big does the Catfish get?
The Catfish grows to a maximum of about 130 cm.
Is the Catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Catfish is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but the stout, serrated pectoral and dorsal fin spines can inflict a painful puncture wound. Clean the wound thoroughly and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
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
Same genus Pseudoplatystoma
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.