Pangasius pangasius

Pangasius pangasius is a species of shark catfish native to fresh and brackish waters of Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Burma. It is also known as the Indian pangasius, Pangas catfish, or Yellowtail catfish.

Description

The Pangasius pangasius can grow up to 3 meters in length and weigh up to 44 kg. It has a silver-colored body with a heavy, shark-like appearance. The fish has a flat, broad head and two pairs of barbels or whiskers. The dorsal fin is spiny and strong, while the anal fin is long and extends to the tail.

Habitat and Distribution

Pangasius pangasius is found in the large rivers and estuaries of South Asia, particularly in the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna river systems. It prefers deep, slow-moving water with a muddy bottom.

Diet

The diet of Pangasius pangasius consists mainly of crustaceans, insects, smaller fish, and plant matter. It is a bottom feeder, using its barbels to search for food in the mud and silt.

Reproduction

Pangasius pangasius is a spawning fish. The female lays eggs in a nest built by the male, who then guards the eggs until they hatch. The young fish are cared for by both parents until they are able to fend for themselves.

Economic Importance

Pangasius pangasius is an important food fish in South Asia. It is commercially farmed and also caught in the wild. The flesh is white, firm, and mild in flavor, making it popular in a variety of dishes.

Conservation Status

The Pangasius pangasius is currently listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN Red List due to overfishing and habitat loss. Efforts are being made to conserve the species through sustainable fishing practices and habitat protection.

See Also

• Shark catfish
• Aquaculture in India
• Fisheries in Bangladesh