Fin's Fish Guide
The Giant pangasius (Pangasius sanitwongsei) is a freshwater fish of the family Pangasiidae that grows up to 300 cm.
Description
The giant pangasius is a very large shark catfish (Pangasiidae) from the Mekong and Chao Phraya basins in Southeast Asia. The species can grow to about 3 metres and has a robust, greyish, scaleless body with elongate, thread-like leading fin rays and a deeply forked tail. As a top predator it migrates through large rivers and hunts fish, crustaceans and carrion. Through dams, pollution and overfishing the species is critically endangered. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Giant pangasius?
The Giant pangasius has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Giant pangasius live?
The Giant pangasius lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Asia: Cambodia, China, Laos, Viet Nam, Thailand
How big does the Giant pangasius get?
The Giant pangasius grows to a maximum of about 300 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the Giant pangasius dangerous to humans?
No, the Giant pangasius 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 Giant pangasius edible?
Yes, the Giant pangasius is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pangasius
More from the family Pangasiidae
Want the complete picture on the Giant pangasius?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Giant pangasius is one of 12,519 species in the app.