International Desk: For almost two decades, a fish named 'Ghost of the Mekong River' has not been seen in any reservoir in Cambodia. But after a long time, that fish was found again in the country.
Fish
The giant carp has been spotted again by a team of international scientists led by Cambodia's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries and the country's Fisheries Administration.
This unusual shaped salmon has not been seen since 2005. As a result, this species of fish was thought to be extinct. However, the discovery of this giant fish is a significant event in science circles.
"The rediscovery of the giant salmon carp will bring hope not only for this species, but for the entire Mekong ecosystem," said lead researcher Bunieth Chan of Soe Rieng University in Cambodia. Mekong Ecosystem One of the most productive ecosystems in the world, the Mekong River produces more than two million tons of fish each year, valued at more than $200 billion.
After the rediscovery, this fish was added to the list of protected species by the Fisheries Administration of Cambodia.
This fish can grow up to 4 feet and has a hooked jaw. Besides, bright yellow color can be seen around its eyes.
Since 2017, researchers have developed contacts with local fishermen. Researchers are asked to report any new or unusual fish they see. As a result, between 2020 and 2023, three giant salmon carp have been spotted in the Mekong River in Cambodia.
Researchers say this incident has created new hope for the future of the fish. Another name of the fish is 'ghost fish' or 'bhoot fish'.