Pangasius fish

Description

Pangasius Fish – Pangasianodon hypophthalmus | High-Yield Commercial Catfish for Aquaculture

Pangasius fish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus), commonly referred to as Sutchi catfish, Basa, or Vietnamese catfish, is one of the most popular commercial aquaculture species in India and across Southeast Asia. Native to the Mekong River Basin, Pangasius has become a key species in large-scale freshwater fish farming due to its rapid growth, adaptability, and consumer appeal.

Key Characteristics:

• Scientific Name: Pangasianodon hypophthalmus

• Common Names: Pangasius, Basa, Sutchi Catfish

• Family: Pangasiidae

• Habitat: Freshwater ponds, tanks, and cages

• Feeding Habit: Omnivorous – accepts pellets, plants, and animal-based feeds

• Body: Long, smooth, scaleless body with a flat head and greyish skin

  Aquaculture Significance:

  Pangasius is especially favored for intensive aquaculture systems. Its high tolerance to crowding and low-oxygen conditions makes it ideal for high-density stocking. It is commonly raised in earthen ponds or cages in rivers and canals and is a top choice for export-oriented production.

  Growth & Production:

  • Reaches marketable size (800g–1.5 kg) in just 6–8 months

  • High Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) efficiency

  • Year-round breeding possible in hatcheries

  • Easy harvesting and processing for fillets

    Nutritional Benefits:

    Pangasius offers lean white meat that is:

    • High in protein

    • Low in fat and cholesterol

    • Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and essential nutrients
      Its boneless texture and mild flavor make it popular among health-conscious consumers and in processed seafood markets.

      Market Value:

      • Widely consumed in India, Vietnam, Thailand, Bangladesh, and exported to the EU, USA, and Middle East

      • Ideal for fillet production, frozen packs, and value-added seafood products

      • Known for its cost-efficiency and appeal to mass markets