Long finned cat
Pinirampus pirinampu
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pinirampus
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The Long finned cat faces severe population declines primarily due to overfishing throughout its range in South American river systems. Dam construction across the Amazon and Orinoco basins fragments its habitat and disrupts critical spawning migrations. Water pollution from mining, agriculture, and urban development degrades water quality in key breeding areas, while deforestation increases sedimentation that affects feeding grounds.
Habitat
This large catfish inhabits the main channels and tributaries of major South American river systems, particularly the Amazon and Orinoco basins. It prefers deep, flowing waters with muddy or sandy bottoms and requires extensive river corridors for seasonal migrations between feeding and spawning areas.
Other threatened species in Pimelodidae
Threatened in Argentina
Frequently asked questions
Why is Long finned cat classified as Endangered?
Where does Long finned cat live?
What are the main threats to Long finned cat?
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