Giant Pangasius

The Giant Pangasius, also called the Paroon Shark, is a colossal migratory catfish from the Mekong and Chao Phraya river systems of Southeast Asia, where wild individuals historically reached three metres. Critically endangered in nature, it is nonetheless sold small in the trade despite growing exceptionally fast to well over a metre, quickly outgrowing home aquaria. Only public aquaria or vast custom ponds of many thousands of litres can house it long term. A nervous, powerful swimmer, it bolts when startled and can injure itself against glass and decor, so subdued lighting and unobstructed swimming lanes are essential. It is a predatory carnivore, taking fish, crustaceans and meaty foods. Keep water at 22-26°C, pH near neutral, with heavy filtration and strong flow. Utterly unsuitable for typical hobbyists; this is a fish for specialists only.