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Ruler Marine: Pangasius
About Pangasius
Pangasius is a genus of medium-large to very large shark catfishes native to fresh water in South and Southeast Asia. The term “pangasius” is sometimes used to specifically refer to the commercially important basa fish, P. bocourti.
Taxonomy
In 2011, Pangasius was sixth in the National Fisheries Institute’s “Top 10” list of the most consumed seafood in the United States. The Top 10 is based on the tonnage of fish sold. According to the NFI, this mild-flavored white-fleshed fish is farmed in Asia and used increasingly in foodservice. It is finding its way onto restaurant menus and into stores, as well, where one may see it called basa, tra, or swai.
Fossil Record
The single known fossil species of this genus, P. indicus, is reported from the Paleogene period of Sipang, Sumatra, either from the Eocene or the Oligocene.
Species
Recognized species which are in this genus: