Tigerstriped catfish
Brachyplatystoma tigrinum
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brachyplatystoma_tigrinum
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The Tigerstriped catfish faces severe pressure from commercial overfishing throughout its Amazon basin range, where it is highly valued for its large size and meat quality. Dam construction across major tributaries disrupts its extensive migratory patterns essential for spawning, while deforestation and mining activities degrade critical nursery habitats in floodplain areas. The species' slow maturation rate and complex life cycle make populations particularly vulnerable to these combined anthropogenic pressures.
Habitat
This large migratory catfish inhabits the main channels and tributaries of the Amazon and Orinoco river systems, requiring both deep river channels for adult feeding and shallow floodplain areas for spawning and juvenile development. The species undertakes extensive migrations between these habitats, traveling hundreds of kilometers seasonally.
Other threatened species in Pimelodidae
Threatened in Bolivia
Frequently asked questions
Why is Tigerstriped catfish classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Tigerstriped catfish live?
What are the main threats to Tigerstriped catfish?
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