How to Identify Tiger Sorubim

To identify Tiger Sorubim (Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

The dorsal surface is typically dark grey to olive-brown, fading to a lighter, often whitish or yellowish ventral side. The most striking feature is the series of irregular, dark, vertical to oblique bars or stripes that run along the flanks, often extending onto the fins. These bars can vary in thickness and pattern, sometimes breaking into spots or reticulations, especially in younger individuals. The head is often mottled.

Scale type

none

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Flattened, shovel-like head with a prominent snout, Three pairs of long, sensory barbels: one maxillary pair extending beyond the pectoral fins, and two mental pairs on the chin, Large, terminal mouth with numerous small, conical teeth arranged in bands, Distinctive dark vertical to oblique bars on a lighter background, Adipose fin present and relatively large

Dorsal fin

Single, relatively short-based dorsal fin with a strong, serrated spine and 6-7 soft rays. The spine can be locked upright.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin with pointed lobes.

Pectoral fin

Large, fan-like pectoral fins, each with a strong, serrated spine and several soft rays. These spines can inflict painful wounds.

Distinctive fins

Small, fleshy adipose fin located between the dorsal and caudal fins. Pelvic fins are relatively small and located abdominally.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Pattern

   Look for the characteristic dark, irregular vertical or oblique bars on a lighter body. The pattern can be somewhat variable but is always present.

2. 2

   Head Shape

   Note the distinctly flattened, shovel-like head and prominent snout, which is longer and more pointed than in many other large catfish.

3. 3

   Barbels

   Observe the three pairs of long barbels, especially the maxillary pair which extends well past the pectoral fins.

4. 4

   Size

   Adults can reach impressive sizes, often exceeding 1 meter (3.3 feet) in length and weighing over 20 kg (44 lbs), with some records approaching 1.5 meters (5 feet) and 50 kg (110 lbs).

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