Piramutaba
Brachyplatystoma vaillantii
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brachyplatystoma_vaillantii
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The Piramutaba faces severe pressure from intensive commercial fishing throughout its range, with populations declining due to overharvesting for both domestic consumption and export markets. Dam construction across the Amazon basin fragments its migratory routes, preventing access to critical spawning grounds in upstream tributaries. Water pollution from mining, agriculture, and urban development degrades water quality in key habitats, while deforestation increases sedimentation that affects feeding areas.
Habitat
The Piramutaba inhabits the main channels and tributaries of the Amazon River system, preferring deep waters with moderate to strong currents. This highly migratory catfish moves between freshwater spawning areas in the upper Amazon basin and brackish estuarine waters near the river mouth.
Other threatened species in Pimelodidae
Threatened in Brazil
Frequently asked questions
Why is Piramutaba classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Piramutaba live?
What are the main threats to Piramutaba?
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