Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum

Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum (common names barred sorubim or barred catfish) is a species of long-whiskered catfish native to Brazil. It inhabits freshwater systems within the Guiana Shield and utilizes both rivers and wetlands as habitat. P. fasciatum have distinct vertical bars across the body, and females are larger in size compared to males. Pseudoplatystoma species are adapted to hydrologic variation, reproducing during highflow events. Catfish possess high sensory organs to detect prey in low light conditions, feeding along the benthos. P. fasciatum is a native species to the Amazon basin where it is a vital resource for food and commerce.

Distribution

P. fasciatum is found across the Guyana Shield, in the Essequibo, Corantijn, Orinoco, and Amazon river basins, where it occupies large tropical river systems and adjacent floodplain habitats. The inundated floodplains serve as nursery habitats for eggs and juvenile fish, as abundant emergent vegetation provides protection from predators.

Behaviour

P. fasciatum primarily feeds on fish and small crabs, including anostomids, loricariids, cichlids, and crabs. Like other Pseudoplatystoma species they can be found feeding at night near the benthos. Feeding in low light can be difficult to find prey if the species is not equipped with the right tools. P. fasciatum has three pairs of barbels along with chemosensory organs, which allow it to detect and capture prey at night along with other catfish species.