Shovelnose Tiger Catfish:

An Aquarium and Sport Fish of Amazonia

The Shovelnosed Tiger Catfish (Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum) is also known as the Barred Sorubium  and the Tiger Shovelnose Catfish.  This catfish is a fish that is popular with aquarium enthusiasts and fishermen alike.  It is native to the Amazon Bason and can be found in such countries as Brazil, Peru, Venezuela, and Paraguay.  In the amazon it is considered a sport fish and is reported to be very tasty. 

How Big do Shovelnose Catfish Get?

If you find this fish in a pet store it will likely be about 3 inches but be warned that it will grow much bigger.  In only a few years the fish can easily reach 2 feet in lenght.  In its native streams this fish can get over 60 pounds.  Females are the larger of the two sexes and reach sexual maturity at 56cm while males are mature at 45cm. 

Can I have one of these as a pet?

This fish usually goes by the name of Tiger Shovelnose Catfish in the aquarium trade.  For more information about feeding, and raising these shovelnose catfish we've provided some links below.

Quick Aquarium Care Facts

  • Where does it live: Bottom to Middle regions of the tank.
  • Tank Size: Small individuals under 6 inches should be in at least a 55 gallon tank.  After 6 inches it should be in a 180 gallon or larger tank with open swimming areas.
  • Water Chemistry: pH 6-8, 4-30 dH, 75-82 degrees F
  • Social Behavior: Active Nocturnal Predator.  It will eat smaller fish in the tank.  It should live in groups or singly with other large hardy fish.
  • Food: Live fish, earthworms, tablets, meat scraps.
  • Other: The Shovelnose Tiger Catfish is the most popular of the five Pseudoplatystoma species.  It is a popular food fish in South America where it can be found easily in local fish markets.
Cite this Page: Nelson, R. 2009. "Shovelnose Tiger Catfish" (OnLine) UntamedScience. Accessed Jul 29, 2010 at http://www.untamedscience.com/biodiversity/animals/chordates/ray-finned-fishes/catfishes/long-whiskered-catfishes/pseudoplatystoma/shovelnose-tiger-catfish
Nelson, R.
Rob Nelson (author)
Montana State University
Created on: Jan 30th, 2009
Last updated: Feb 21st, 2010
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