Lima Shovelnose Catfish (4.5-5”)

Scientific Name: Sorubim lima

Maximum Size and Lifespan:
The Lima Shovelnose Catfish can reach up to 18–24 inches (45–60 cm) in length, with rare wild specimens slightly exceeding this.

In captivity, they typically lives 10–15 years with proper care.

Recommended Aquarium Size, Water Changes, and Care:

• Aquarium Size: Minimum 125-180 gallons (680 liters) for an adult; larger is better to provide swimming space and accommodate its size and activity level.

• Juveniles can be raised in a 40-90 gallon tank for better observation

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 73–82°F (23–28°C)

  • pH: 6.0–7.5
    

• Water Changes: Perform 30–40% weekly water changes to maintain excellent water quality, as large predatory catfish produce significant waste.

• Care Notes: Requires strong filtration, stable water parameters, and a long tank footprint for swimming. Provide a soft sand or fine gravel substrate to protect barbels, along with driftwood and large caves for resting. The tank should be covered, as these fish can leap when startled.

Tankmates:
The Lima Shovelnose is predatory and will swallow anything it can fit into its mouth. Suitable tankmates include:

• Large, robust fish such as Oscars, Silver Dollars, Peacock Bass, Arowana, Large Central/ South American Cichlids, and similar-sized catfish.

• Avoid small fish, slow-moving delicate species, or anything under ~⅓ of the Lima’s length.

Diet:
Carnivorous. In the wild, it feeds on fish, crustaceans, and aquatic insects. In captivity:

• Feed hikari sinking carnivore pellets. 

• Frozen shrimp and tilapia

• Feed 3–4 times per week as adults; juveniles require more frequent feeding 1-2 times per day.

Overview:
The Lima Shovelnose Catfish is a long, slender predator known for its distinct flattened snout and elongated body, built for ambushing prey in fast-flowing rivers. While peaceful toward similarly sized tankmates, it is opportunistic and will consume smaller fish. Best suited for experienced aquarists with large aquariums, it needs clean, well-oxygenated water and plenty of open swimming space.

Natural Environment:
Native to South America, it is found in the Amazon, Orinoco, and Paraná river basins. It inhabits slow to moderately flowing river channels, floodplains, and vegetated margins, often hunting under cover of driftwood or submerged roots.

Breeding:
Breeding Sorubim lima in home aquariums is extremely rare due to their large size, migratory spawning behavior, and environmental triggers in the wild (seasonal flooding, temperature changes, and long swimming distances). Commercial breeding is typically done in large ponds or via hormone induction. No confirmed natural spawning records exist for home aquaria.