Vulture Catfish
Calophysus macropterus
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calophysus_macropterus
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The Zamurito faces severe pressure from overfishing throughout its Amazon basin range, where it is heavily targeted for both commercial and subsistence fisheries due to its large size and economic value. Dam construction and river modifications across major tributaries are fragmenting populations and altering the seasonal flood patterns essential for its reproductive cycle. Mercury contamination from artisanal gold mining operations poses an additional threat, as this apex predator bioaccumulates toxins through its diet of smaller fish.
Habitat
The Zamurito inhabits large river systems throughout the Amazon basin, preferring deep channels and confluences of major tributaries. This catfish species requires seasonal floodplains for spawning and juvenile development, moving between main river channels and flooded forests during different life stages.
Other threatened species in Pimelodidae
Threatened in Bolivia
Frequently asked questions
Why is Vulture Catfish classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Vulture Catfish live?
What are the main threats to Vulture Catfish?
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