Fin's Fish Guide
The Kumakuma (Brachyplatystoma filamentosum) is a brackish-water fish of the family Pimelodidae that grows up to 360 cm.
Large rivers of South America; deep river channels, juveniles in river mouths.
Description
The piraiba is one of the largest catfishes in the world (Pimelodidae) from the large rivers of South America. The species can grow to over three metres and weigh hundreds of kilos, with a greyish, scaleless body, three pairs of long barbels and a broad mouth. Adults live on soft bottoms of deep river channels; juveniles and subadults occur in brackish water of river mouths. As an apex predator it hunts fishes. The stout fin spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Kumakuma?
The Kumakuma has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. One of the largest catfishes in the world (>3 m); migratory apex predator with strong fin spines.
Where does the Kumakuma live?
The Kumakuma lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Large rivers of South America; deep river channels, juveniles in river mouths.
How big does the Kumakuma get?
The Kumakuma grows to a maximum of about 360 cm. On average the species is around 120 cm.
Is the Kumakuma dangerous to humans?
No, the Kumakuma 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 Kumakuma edible?
Yes, the Kumakuma is commonly eaten.
More photos
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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 Kumakuma?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Kumakuma is one of 12,519 species in the app.