Pimelodus paranaensis, n. sp., from the Upper Paraná basin, is described on the basis of 20 specimens. The new species can be diagnosed as follows: (1) teeth present and forming two isolated on the vomer; (2) premaxillary band of teeth with a backward projecting angle; (3) top of head covered with thin layer of skin; (4) adipose fin basis 3,9 to 4.6 in standard length; (5) greatest depth of adipose fin 3.1 to 4.3 in its length, (6) dark spots along the dorsum. In spite of having teeth on the vomer as Pimelodus albicans, and as some specimens of P. clarias (sensu Eigenmann & Eigenmann, 1890) and in being similar to Bagropsis reinhardti in many respects, we feel that the true relationships and the generic status of the new species can be established only after a thorough revision of the group.