Large "Paleta" shovelnose catfish

Collected from both white and black waters; found in floodplain lakes, small creeks (or caños) to large rivers and tidal rivers; on sand, mud, and clay substrates associated with vegetation (e.g. tall reeds, emergent grasses, and root masses of stream-side trees). Apparently nocturnal and hide in groups along stream margins during the day.

This fish is known to be harmless.

Sorubim, a small genus of pimelodid catfishes with five recognized species, is characterized by its shovel-like projecting upper jaw exposing a large premaxillary tooth patch, eyes set laterally on a depressed head, and a distinct black horizontal stripe running the entire length of the fish. Species are distributed throughout most of the major freshwater drainage systems in South America including the amazon.

One species reportedly reaches nearly 80 centimeters in total length, and all five species probably provide an important source of subsistence protein, being sold in many local fish markets throughout South America. Additionally, species of Sorubim are recognized by ornamental fishers, and are known to aquarium traders and hobbyists as shovelnose catfishes.