Fin's Fish Guide
The Chinese bahaba (Bahaba taipingensis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Sciaenidae that grows up to 200 cm.
Description
The Chinese bahaba is a very large croaker (Sciaenidae) from coastal waters and estuaries of the South China Sea, off southern China. The species grows to about 2 metres and has an elongate, silver-grey body with a large mouth. As a top predator it hunts fish and crustaceans in turbid estuaries. Through extreme overfishing, especially for its swim bladder traded as a medicine, the species is critically endangered. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chinese bahaba?
The Chinese bahaba has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Chinese bahaba live?
The Chinese bahaba lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong
How big does the Chinese bahaba get?
The Chinese bahaba grows to a maximum of about 200 cm.
Is the Chinese bahaba dangerous to humans?
No, the Chinese bahaba is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Chinese bahaba edible?
Yes, the Chinese bahaba is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Bahaba
More from the family Sciaenidae
Want the complete picture on the Chinese bahaba?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chinese bahaba is one of 12,519 species in the app.