Pseudoplatystoma Tigrinum

Datasheet

General Description

The Tiger Shovelnose (Pseudoplatystoma Tigrinum) is a large species that reaches up to 105.0cm in size. It is native to the Amazon and Rio Orinoco basins, with a distribution across Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, French Guiana, Peru, and Brazil. This species belongs to the Pimelodidae family and inhabits a variety of habitats ranging from rapids to near brackish conditions.

Aquarium Setup

For the Tiger Shovelnose, a tank size of at least 10000 litres is recommended. Tank setup does not require much decor for adult specimens, provided the lighting is dim. However, adding large chunks of bogwood, beech branches, or smooth rocks can enhance the environment. Substrate choice is crucial as gravel can be ingested, making large, smooth pebbles a better option. A spacious tank with ample swimming room and hiding places for juveniles is ideal. A robust biological filter, preferably a sump-type system, is necessary to manage waste produced by this large fish.

Behaviour

The Tiger Shovelnose is described as peaceful towards similarly-sized species but can be predatory towards smaller fish. It is territorial towards conspecifics and other large Pimelodids, suggesting it is best kept as the sole fish of its kind in most setups. Suitable tank companions include Doradids like Oxydoras niger or Pterodoras granulosus, as well as big characins and cyprinids in a large, deep tank environment.

Feeding and Diet

A natural piscivore, the Tiger Shovelnose can adapt to dead foods in captivity. Its diet should consist of a variety of meaty items such as prawns, mussels, cockles, and earthworms. Overfeeding can lead to health issues, so offering a varied diet and regulating feeding frequency as the fish grows is essential. Avoid feeding mammals' meat or live feeder fish to prevent excess fat deposits and disease risks.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Reproduction details for the Tiger Shovelnose are undocumented in captivity due to their migratory spawning behavior. It is virtually impossible to distinguish males from females externally, with adult females potentially being stockier than males in build.

Habitat and Distribution

Found in a wide range of habitats, from rapids to brackish conditions, the Tiger Shovelnose inhabits the Amazon and Rio Orinoco basins. Its collection spans regions in Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, French Guiana, Peru, and Brazil.