The granulated catfish (Pterodoras granulosus) is a large, armored freshwater catfish native to the major river systems of South America, particularly the Amazon, Paraná, and Paraguay basins. Known for its bony plates and robust size, this species is valued both for local consumption and as a source of protein in regional diets. The top countries involved in the harvesting of granulated catfish are Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay, where the fish is caught primarily through artisanal and small-scale commercial fisheries. In these countries, the fishing industry for granulated catfish supports local economies and provides employment, although overfishing and habitat changes have raised concerns about sustainable management. Brazil leads in both capture and export, with significant landings also reported in Argentina’s Paraná River system and Paraguay’s extensive river networks.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Paraguay | 15 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.