Fin's Fish Guide
The Catfish (Sorubim lima) is a freshwater fish of the family Pimelodidae that grows up to 54 cm.
Description
The duckbill catfish is a South American catfish of the long-whiskered catfish family (Pimelodidae) from the Amazon, Orinoco and Paraná basins. The species grows to about 54 cm and has an elongate, silvery body with a black lateral band and a conspicuously flattened, duckbill-like snout with an inferior mouth and long barbels. It lives in schools, often hidden among roots and water plants, and is mainly nocturnal. As a predator it hunts mainly fishes and crustaceans. The stout pectoral and dorsal spines can give painful puncture wounds, so careful handling is advised. It is a local food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Catfish?
The Catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Flattened, duckbill-like snout with a black longitudinal stripe; nocturnal, schooling predatory catfish.
Where does the Catfish live?
The Catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America; Amazon, Orinoco and Paraná basins.
How big does the Catfish get?
The Catfish grows to a maximum of about 54 cm.
Is the Catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Catfish is harmless to humans. The stout, sharp fin spines can cause painful puncture or cut wounds; handle the fish with care. Clean the wound, let it bleed, and seek medical care if pain or infection increases.
Is the Catfish edible?
The Catfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sorubim
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.
Or scan with your phone