Basa fish

Basa Fish

The Basa fish (Pangasius bocourti) is a species of catfish in the family Pangasiidae. Basa are native to the Mekong River Basin in Indochina. These fish are important aquaculture products, particularly in Vietnam.

Description

Basa fish are large, growing up to 130 cm in length and 44 kg in weight. The body of the basa is elongated and heavy, with a rounded head. The skin is smooth and shiny, with a silver-grey color on the back and a white belly.

Habitat and Distribution

Basa fish are native to the Mekong and Chao Phraya basins in Indochina. They are found in the lower Mekong River and its tributaries in Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Diet

Basa fish are omnivorous, feeding on a diet of plankton, algae, and small invertebrates. They are bottom feeders, which means they feed on the bottom of their habitat.

Aquaculture

Basa fish are an important aquaculture product in Vietnam, where they are farmed in cages and ponds. The fish are harvested when they reach a size of about 1 kg. The meat of the basa fish is white and mild-tasting, making it a popular choice for many types of dishes.

Culinary Uses

Basa fish is a popular ingredient in many dishes around the world. It is often used in fried fish dishes, and is also popular in grilled fish recipes. The mild flavor of the basa fish makes it a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of cuisines.

Health Benefits

Basa fish is a good source of protein and contains healthy fats known as omega-3 fatty acids. These fats are known to have numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease and improving brain health.

See Also

• Catfish
• Aquaculture
• Mekong River
• Vietnamese cuisine