Aquaria
Piraíba

Piraíba

NamePiraíba
Scientific NameBrachyplatystoma filamentosum
Common NamesPiraíba, Giant Amazon Catfish, Filamentosum Catfish, Lau-lau
FamilyPimelodidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Orinoco Basin
Temperamentaggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelexpert
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)5000
Max Size (Inches)120
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-82
pH Range6.0-7.5

Description

The Piraíba, also known as the Giant Amazon Catfish, is one of the largest freshwater fish in South America, capable of reaching immense sizes. This apex predator is characterized by its powerful body, long barbels, and a diet consisting primarily of other fish, crustaceans, and even small mammals or birds. Due to its colossal size, it is exclusively suited for public aquariums or very large, specialized private setups.

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