Porthole shovelnose catfish
📖 Overview
Rather rare, confined to the deeper and slow-moving parts of large rivers together with some Loricaria and Potamotrygon. Its body shape and color pattern are perfectly adapted to the muddy bottom where they stay . Feeds on benthic organisms and fish. The position of the eyes and the shape of the mouth of this piscivorous fish give to its stalking mode of hunting .
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
: elongated.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Porthole shovelnose catfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Porthole shovelnose catfish is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Freshwater; demersal; pH range: 6.0 - 7.8; dH range: ? - 25. Subtropical; 20°C - 22°C South America: Amazon, Maroni, Orinoco, and Paraná River basins.
🌿 Ecology
benthic organisms and fish
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Porthole shovelnose catfish is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Per 100g cooked - Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Protein | 18 g |
| Omega-3 (total) | 455 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Porthole shovelnose catfish has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 48 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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