Vulture Catfish, also known as Zamurito or Piracatinga, is a type of catfish with the scientific name Calophysus macropterus.
It’s the only member of its genus, Calophysus, and belongs to the Pimelodidae family.
It’s known for attacking fish caught in fishermen’s nets, seines, trotlines, or those hooked on gaffs.
Vulture catfish is a smaller member of the Pimelodidae family and can be kept in a large aquarium.
It’s a hardy fish, but you should be careful when choosing tankmates for it since it can bite them.
However, some people who have kept this fish say it doesn’t show any aggressive behavior.
You can check out what this fish looks like over here.
Vulture Catfish Interesting Facts
- Vulture catfish is also known as Piracatinga or Zamurito.
- This species of catfish can grow up to 40 centimeters long and is found in the Amazon and Orinoco basins.
- They are known to attack other fish caught in fishermen’s nets, seines, trotlines, or gaffs due to their predatory nature.
- While they may be appropriate for a large aquarium, you should choose their tankmates carefully because they can bite them.
Vulture Catfish Habitat
Vulture catfish is commonly found in South America, specifically in the Amazon and Orinoco River basins.
These fish prefer freshwater habitats that are tropical and live at the bottom of the water.
| Water Temperature: | Unknown |
| Water pH: | Unknown |
| Water Hardness: | Unknown |
Vulture Catfish Physical Characteristics
Size: 15.7 inches (40.0 centimeters)
The maximum length a vulture catfish reaches is around 15.7 inches (40.0 centimeters).
Vulture Catfish Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Siluriformes |
| Family: | Pimelodidae |
| Genus: | Calophysus |
| Scientific Name: | Calophysus macropterus |
| Also Known As: | Vulture Catfish, Zamurito, Piracatinga |
| Conservation Status: | Unknown |