Top Laulao Catfish Fishing Countries

The Laulao Catfish (Brachyplatystoma vaillantii), also known as the gilded catfish, is a large migratory species native to the Amazon and Orinoco river basins in South America. Recognized for its elongated body and distinctive golden sheen, the Laulao catfish can reach impressive sizes, making it a prized catch for both commercial and artisanal fisheries. The top countries involved in harvesting this species are Brazil, Peru, Colombia, and Venezuela, where the fish is an important source of protein and economic activity. In these countries, the Laulao catfish is caught using traditional riverine methods as well as commercial trawling, and its population health is closely tied to the management of freshwater fisheries and the preservation of riverine ecosystems. Overfishing and habitat degradation have raised concerns about sustainability, prompting some countries to implement regulations aimed at ensuring the long-term viability of Laulao catfish stocks.

Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.