Spotted Shovelnose - (Pseudoplatystoma corruscans)

🐟 Spotted Shovelnose – (Pseudoplatystoma corruscans) – Large South American Catfish

The Spotted Shovelnose (Pseudoplatystoma corruscans) is a powerful and striking predatory catfish native to large river systems of South America, particularly in Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. Recognized by its elongated body, broad flat snout, and bold spotted pattern, this species can grow extremely large and requires enormous aquariums or indoor ponds. It is a true river giant that is best suited for experienced aquarists with the proper space and filtration to handle its size and activity level.

🔎 Quick Facts – Spotted Shovelnose (Pseudoplatystoma corruscans)

• 📛 Common Names: Spotted Shovelnose Catfish, Pintado Catfish
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Pseudoplatystoma corruscans
• 🌍 Origin: South America – Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina
• 🎨 Appearance: Silvery-grey body with black spots and short vertical bars, long flat snout
• 📏 Max Size: 40–50 inches (100–127 cm) in the wild; slightly smaller in captivity
• 💎 Rarity: Occasionally available but often misjudged for tank size needs

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🐟 Active and predatory—will eat any fish small enough to fit in its mouth
• 🌊 Strong swimmer, requires large open space
• ⚠️ Not suitable for community aquariums with small or slow tankmates
• 🌙 Primarily nocturnal but will adapt to feeding during the day

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 500–1,000+ gallons or large indoor pond
• 🌿 Large open swimming space with some driftwood or boulders for cover
• 💡 Moderate lighting
• 🌊 Strong water movement and high oxygen levels
• 🧹 Extremely powerful filtration due to high waste production

💧 Water Parameters – Spotted Shovelnose Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 74–82°F (23–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.5–7.5
• 💧 Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

🍽️ Diet – Carnivorous Predator

• 🐟 Whole fish (fresh or frozen)
• 🦐 Shrimp, prawns, and other shellfish
• 🥩 Pieces of squid or mussels
• 🪱 Large earthworms
• ⚠️ Avoid feeding only live feeder fish to prevent parasites and nutritional issues

📋 Spotted Shovelnose Care Overview Table

✨ Highlight:

• The Spotted Shovelnose is an awe-inspiring river predator that should only be kept by aquarists with the space and resources to house it for life—making it a rare but incredible showpiece for huge aquariums or indoor ponds.