Mekong giant catfish

Start with the scientific name

The accepted name used here is Pangasianodon gigas, in the family Pangasiidae. NCBI records the same scientific name; FishBase describes the natural range as the Mekong basin. Taxonomy; species account.

FishBase describes a plain, unstriped body and adults with teeth absent and barbels greatly reduced. Age changes its appearance, so an unfamiliar catfish should not be identified solely from a large body or small whiskers.

A river fish with a conservation story

FishBase describes a migratory freshwater fish and reports a Critically Endangered IUCN assessment dated 13 April 2011. Its account describes adults feeding on algae and bottom detritus. Biology and assessment details.

The Mekong River Commission includes this fish among the river’s notable biodiversity. A stocked-lake session and a wild river population need to be discussed separately. River context.

What this means for a visitor

For a managed-fishery visit, ask the guide to explain the tackle and bait for the particular lake. Plan the response to a bite before fishing, including when to call for help and where staff intend to land the fish.

Our Bungsamran guide is the main starting point for planning. Follow it into commercial-lake basics and fish care.

We do not use this profile to promote wild fishing or quote an unsupported world-record size. Venue photographs should identify the date, location and basis of any stated weight.