Fun Tiger Shovelnose Catfish Facts For Kids

Catfish are a diverse ray finned fish family. Pseudoplatystoma is a genus containing many Pimelodidae (South American catfish) species.

The species is known by an assortment of normal names. The tiger shovelnose catfish (Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum) favor the primary supplies of significant streams and like to stay at the ideal height, albeit certain populaces can likewise be found in wetlands, lowered backwoods, and other freshwater conditions.

They have solid bodies and are significant food fish. The tiger shovelnose catfish (Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum) populace size has as of late been definitely diminished because of various reasons, for example, overfishing and natural surroundings misfortune brought about by the structure of dams.

Here are some interesting facts on the tiger shovelnose catfish which is native to South America, afterward do check our other articles on the cory catfish and blue catfish as well.
 

Tiger Shovelnose Catfish Interesting Facts

What type of animal is a tiger shovelnose catfish?

The tiger shovelnose catfish (Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum), is a genus of long whiskered catfish native to the Amazon river basin. This fish can be found in various countries of South America such as Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela as their origin is in the Amazon river.

What class of animal does a tiger shovelnose catfish belong to?

The tiger shovelnose catfish (Pseudoplatystoma tigrinum) is a fish member of the genus Pseudoplatystoma and the family Pimelodidae, all of which are members of the Actinopterygii class. Pseudoplatystoma species of Catfish are all large, boldly striped, or spotted catfishes that are well known for their distinct color patterns.

How many tiger shovelnose catfish are there in the world?

There is no estimation of how many tiger shovelnose catfish there are in the world as they have spread far and wide from their point of origin in the Amazon river basin. But the population of tiger shovelnose catfish (Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum) has declined over the years due to overfishing and habitat loss.

Moreover, the presence of mixed breeds like red tail tiger shovelnose catfish hybrid and tiger shovelnose red tail catfish hybrid makes the task of ascertaining their overall population accurately a tad bit difficult.

Where does a tiger shovelnose catfish live?

Tiger shovelnose catfishes are usually found in the lowest parts of big rivers, where this fish with an aggressive temperament has plenty of space to wander about and find food for themselves. The Tiger shovelnose catfish likes areas that are covered.

What is a tiger shovelnose catfish's habitat?

The tiger shovelnose catfish is native to the Amazon river basin and can be found in its natural habitat in countries like Brazil, Peru, Venezuela, Ecuador, and Paraguay. In terms of behavior, these fish, with an aggressive temperament, are active nocturnal predators feeding on smaller fish species while swimming at a leisurely pace.

Who do tiger shovelnose catfish live with?

Although tiger shovelnose catfish is most likely be able to protect itself, you can never use a tank in an area where there is frequent combat. Arowana, other big catfish like the redtail, giant gourami, pacu, and even oscar fish are examples of suitable tank mates.

Even smaller fishes are not an option as these wild fishes like feeding on smaller fish in rivers.

How long does a tiger shovelnose catfish live?

The tiger shovelnose catfish's lifespan can range from 18-25 years. This diversity can be greatly influenced by genetic influences as well as the level of treatment this large fish species receives in captivity.

It is unusual for tiger shovelnose catfish to reach the end of their life in captivity. This isn't uncommon for big freshwater fish, so it's something to be mindful of before purchasing one.

How do they reproduce?

Tiger shovelnose catfishes are difficult to raise in aquariums because fish of this species need a lot of space to reproduce. This fish will, however, reproduce in big ponds. There is evidence to suggest that muddy water is needed for this species to breed. In open waters, they engage in sexual breeding like other fish of the same species.

What is their conservation status?

The tiger shovelnose catfish conservation status has been listed as Not Extinct. While the population is stable across its natural habitat but a decline in populations has been noticed due to overfishing and habitat loss.

Tiger Shovelnose Catfish Fun Facts

What do tiger shovelnose catfish look like?

Tiger shovelnose catfishes have a long, large, flat mouth that helps them to swat prey. They have long, forward angled barbels that protrude from the front of their mouth.

Their body is dark silver in hue and pattern, with long black streaks running vertically. These fish are also spotted, so you'll see marks in various places between the stripes. The dorsal fins are of medium size and fan backward in a shell like pattern.

How cute are they?

The tiger shovelnose catfish is regarded as a beautiful looking fish with a long slender body with tiger like markings and a large mouth. This is the reason that this species is found in aquariums all over the world.

How do they communicate?

There is no information or research on how they communicate. It is assumed that like other fishes of the family Pimelodidae, they also communicate through body movements and vibrations.

How big is a tiger shovelnose catfish?

The tiger shovelnose catfish length is almost three times bigger than the Asian stone catfish. The tiger shovelnose catfish is a large catfish whose length can grow to be over 4 ft (1.2 m) in captivity, though the average length in the wild is 2 ft (0.6 m).

How fast can a tiger shovelnose catfish swim?

There is no information on their swimming speed. These fish species are nocturnal predators who like swimming at a leisurely pace while feeding on smaller fish in the wild. These fish species are aggressive in nature and must be handled with care.

How much does a tiger shovelnose catfish weigh?

A tiger shovelnose catfish weighs at a max of around 60 lb (27.2 kg).

What are the male and female names of the species?

The male tiger shovelnose catfish is called surubí, There is no name for a female tiger shovelnose catfish yet.

What would you call a baby tiger shovelnose catfish?

There is no specific name for a  baby tiger shovelnose catfish.

What do they eat?

These fish mostly consume smaller fish and crustaceans in the wild. They have been seen nibbling on plants from time to time. To have a nutritious diet, aim for a combination of frozen meals, worms, and pellets. You should also offer them bits of fish as a treat.

Are they dangerous?

Tiger shovelnose catfishes are vicious, so make sure you prepare accordingly before purchasing one. They may become aggressive and prey on other fish that are unable to defend themselves. You can feed them frozen foods and suitable pellets in captivity.

Would they make a good pet?

This fish species will make for an excellent pet for your home. You must get a suitably sized aquarium and compatible tank mates before you decide to purchase any fish of this species as they are aggressive in nature.

Did you know...

They are mostly nocturnal hunters with short, localized migrations. Catfish are found in over 3,000 different varieties.

Except for Antarctica, they can be found along all continents.

Wilmington will host its 20th annual Catfish Days from Thursday to Sunday. If you're craving catfish, this is the way to go.

Do tiger shovelnose catfish need air?

The tiger shovelnose catfish has an accessory organ (the suprabranchial arborescent organ) paired with the gill cavity that enables the fish to breathe oxygen. They will last on land for many hours or even days. They will go into a hibernation like state where they can live for months without water before the rain falls.

Where are tiger shovelnose catfish from?

The tiger shovelnose catfish is native to the Amazon river basin and from there, it has spread to various countries in the region including Brazil, Peru, Venezuela, and Ecuador.

Here at Kidadl, we have carefully created lots of interesting family-friendly animal facts for everyone to discover! For more relatable content, check out these coelacanth facts and fluke fish facts pages.

You can even occupy yourself at home by coloring in one of our catfish coloring pages.