How to Identify Giant Pangasius

To identify Giant Pangasius (Pangasius sanitwongsei), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Adults are typically dark grey to black dorsally, fading to a lighter grey or silvery-white ventrally. Juveniles may have a more silvery appearance with darker markings. Fins are often dark.

Scale type

none

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Very large size, reaching over 3 meters in length., Robust, somewhat compressed body., Large, prominent dorsal fin with a strong spine., Two pairs of barbels: one maxillary pair extending to or beyond the pectoral fin base, and one mandibular pair that is shorter., Relatively small eyes for its body size., Deeply forked caudal fin.

Dorsal fin

One large, triangular dorsal fin with 1-2 spines and 6-7 soft rays. The first spine is stout and serrated.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin, with pointed lobes.

Pectoral fin

Large, powerful pectoral fins with a strong, serrated spine.

Distinctive fins

Adipose fin is absent. Pelvic fins are relatively small.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Size

   Its immense size (up to 3 meters) immediately distinguishes it from most other freshwater fish.

2. 2

   Dorsal Fin

   The large, prominent, and triangular dorsal fin with a strong spine is a key identifier.

3. 3

   Barbels

   Two pairs of barbels, with the maxillary pair being notably long, reaching past the pectoral fin base.

4. 4

   Coloration

   Dark grey to black dorsal coloration contrasting with a lighter belly.

5. 5

   Caudal Fin

   Deeply forked tail fin.

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