Fin's Fish Guide
The Porthole shovelnose catfish (Hemisorubim platyrhynchos) is a freshwater fish of the family Pimelodidae that grows up to 61 cm.
South America, in deeper, slow-flowing parts of large rivers with muddy bottoms.
Description
The porthole shovelnose catfish is a long-whiskered catfish (family Pimelodidae) of South America. The species grows to about 61 cm and has a streamlined, silvery-grey body with dark spots, a flattened, shovel-shaped snout and long barbels. It is rather rare and stays in the deeper, slow-moving parts of large rivers with muddy bottoms, together with armoured catfishes and freshwater stingrays. As an ambush predator it hunts fishes and bottom organisms. The species is of commercial value and is also kept in public aquaria. The fin spines can cause painful injuries.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Porthole shovelnose catfish?
The Porthole shovelnose catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Spade-shaped, flattened snout; stalking predator of deep, slow-flowing river stretches.
Where does the Porthole shovelnose catfish live?
The Porthole shovelnose catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America, in deeper, slow-flowing parts of large rivers with muddy bottoms.
How big does the Porthole shovelnose catfish get?
The Porthole shovelnose catfish grows to a maximum of about 61 cm.
Is the Porthole shovelnose catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Porthole shovelnose catfish is harmless to humans. For a jab from the pectoral or dorsal fin spines: clean the wound, let it bleed, and seek medical care if pain or inflammation increases.
Is the Porthole shovelnose catfish edible?
Yes, the Porthole shovelnose catfish is commonly eaten.
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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 Porthole shovelnose catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Porthole shovelnose catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.