[[Genus Sorubim Cuvier ^ZBK ]]

Introduction

Sorubim ^ZBK, a small genus of pimelodid catfishes with five recognized species, is characterized by its shovel-like projecting upper jaw exposing a large premaxillary tooth patch, eyes set laterally on a depressed head, and a distinct black horizontal stripe running the entire length of the fish. Species are distributed throughout most of the major freshwater drainage systems in South America including the Amazon, Essequibo, Orinoco, Maracaibo, Magdalena and Paraná . Specimens have been collected in 10 countries spanning much of the continent. One species reportedly reaches nearly 80 centimeters in total length, and all five species probably provide an important source of subsistence protein, being sold in many local fish markets throughout South America. Additionally, species of Sorubim ^ZBK are recognized by ornamental fishers, and are known to aquarium traders and hobbyists as shovelnose catfishes.

Mainly lowland inhabitants and locally abundant throughout their ranges, the species occur in both lotic and lentic systems including lakes adjacent to rivers, bays and coves, large rivers and the lower reaches of smaller tributaries. They are usually collected over substrates of mud, sand, and clay, often associated with vegetation (i.e., root masses, tall reeds, grasses).

The objectives of this study are to redescribe S. lima ^ZBK and S. trigonocephalus ^ZBK and update information on their geographic distributions. The additional three species of Sorubim ^ZBK, all described since 2000 (Littmann et al. 2000; 2001a; 2001b), are diagnosed and illustrated with photographs. A key to the five recognized species is provided.