Paroon Shark-Catfish

Species: Paroon Shark-Catfish
Habitat: River basins in Southeast Asia
Status: Critically endangered
DAK Locale: Discovery Island Trails

This large fish is a member of the shark-catfish family. It is not a shark. Instead, its name comes from the shark-like dorsal fin on the top of its body. Otherwise, it doesn't really resemble a shark at all, although it is a massive fish. It has been known to grow over 7 feet in length and can weigh over 600 pounds.

It is found only in 2 river basins: the lower Mekong in Indochina and the Chao Phraya in Thailand. In his habitat, it feeds mostly on crustaceans and smaller fish. It is migratory and will spawn just before the monsoon season which begins in July.

Due mostly to overfishing, the species is considered critically endangered. Scientists estimate the population has declined 99% over the last 50 plus years. Locally, it is a popular food and is often found in the market. Indeed, the activity of actually fishing for the animal carried religious significance in some areas. It is also harvested for the aquarium trade which has contributed to its rapid decline in the wild.