This photo, taken at an unknown time and shared by Chhut Chheana, shows a giant salmon carp that was recently found again in Cambodia. AP Photo



In a remarkable turn of events, a large fish species once believed to be extinct has been spotted three times in the Mekong River over the past few years. Known as the giant salmon carp, this fish has become a symbol of the Mekong region, as noted by Chheana Chhut, a researcher at the Inland Fisheries Research and Development Institute in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
The giant salmon carp can reach lengths of up to 4 feet (1.2 meters) and is easily recognized by the prominent knob at the tip of its lower jaw. Its striking appearance is further highlighted by the bright yellow patch around its large eyes. These unique features have captured the interest of researchers and locals alike.

The last confirmed sighting of this species was in 2005, leading many to believe it had disappeared from the Mekong region for years. However, Chheana, a co-author of a recent study published in the journal Biological Conservation, shared that the rediscovery of this fish is both exciting and significant. The recent sightings, occurring between 2020 and 2023, were made possible through efforts by biologists who have been collaborating with local fishing communities in Cambodia. By asking these communities to report any unusual fish sightings, researchers were alerted to the presence of three giant salmon carp.

“I was really surprised and excited to see the real fish for the first time,” said Bunyeth Chan, a researcher at Svay Rieng University and co-author of the study. His enthusiasm reflects the hope that these sightings bring for the future of the species, which is often referred to as “ghost fish.”

In this photo, shared by Chhut Chheana, a researcher is seen holding a giant salmon carp, known as Aaptosyax grypus, which was recently found again in Cambodia. AP Photo

The news of the giant salmon carp's rediscovery is a breath of fresh air for conservationists and researchers, especially given the numerous threats facing migratory fish in the Mekong River. Industrial pollution and overfishing have taken a toll on aquatic life in the region. In addition, more than 700 dams constructed along the river and its tributaries pose significant challenges for fish navigation, as there are few effective “fish passages” to help them overcome these barriers. Brian Eyler, director of the Southeast Asia Program at the Stimson Center, emphasized the urgency of the situation, pointing out that these factors put all migratory species in jeopardy.

The researchers are optimistic about the future of the giant salmon carp. By building partnerships with local communities in Thailand and Laos, they hope to confirm whether the fish still swims in other sections of the Mekong River. Such collaboration could provide crucial insights into the distribution of this elusive species and help develop strategies for its conservation.

The sightings of the giant salmon carp serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving the delicate ecosystems within the Mekong River. Conservation efforts, coupled with community involvement, may provide a pathway to safeguarding not just this remarkable fish but also the diverse aquatic life that calls the river home.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 0 / 5. Vote count: 0

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

You may also like

Gladiator’s Skeleton In York Shows Evidence Of Lion Combat

A fascinating discovery in York, England, has given researchers new insights into ancient Roman combat. Archaeologists have found a skeleton....

White House Reports Success At Canada-U.S. Border Amid Tariffs

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt highlighted the successes at the Canada-U.S. border during a briefing on Tuesday. She mentioned....

Record 7.3 Million Canadians Cast Votes In Advance Polls: Elections Canada

A new record was set in Canada as 7.3 million people cast their votes during the advance polls, according to....

Scientists discover rare signs of Earth's layers peeling beneath Sierra Nevada

Seismologist Deborah Kilb made an exciting discovery while analyzing earthquake data from California. While reviewing the past four decades of....

Harvard Sues Trump Administration Over $2.2 Billion Funding Freeze

Harvard University filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration on Monday, aiming to stop a freeze on over $2.2 billion....

Canada’s Election Focus Shifts From Climate To Energy Plans

As Canada gets ready to vote on April 28, concerns about climate change have taken a back seat. This time,....

Canada’s Election Heats Up As Liberals Hold Narrow Lead

Canada’s federal election is entering its final week, and the race is now neck and neck. A new poll shows....

Trump May Cut Another $1 billion From Harvard Over Policy Dispute

The Trump administration plans to remove another $1 billion in federal funding from Harvard University. This decision comes as tensions....

Oldest American Astronaut Don Pettit Returns To Earth On 70th Birthday

Don Pettit, America’s oldest active astronaut, landed safely back on Earth on his 70th birthday. He traveled in a space....

Advance Voting Grows As Poilievre Slams Carney For Inflation

Canadians kept showing up at advance polls on Sunday, making the most of early voting. While people lined up to....

Record Turnout Across Canada At Advance Polls As Voters Flock To Cast Ballots Early

Advance voting in Canada’s 2025 federal election has reached historic levels. On Good Friday alone, over 2 million people cast....

Trump Says Tariffs Boost U.S. Wealth, Promises Trade Talks

President Donald Trump made it clear this week that he isn’t stepping away from his global tariff strategy. Despite growing....