Experts in conservation were surprised to discover a rare carp species that has been missing for over 20 years.
A extremely rare carp species nicknamed the “Mekong Ghost” (scientific name: Aaptosyax grypus) that was thought to be extinct for nearly two decades has unexpectedly reappeared in Cambodia.
The giant carp known as the “Mekong Ghost” was recently found in Cambodia. (Photo: Wonders of the Mekong/University of Nevada, Reno).
The giant carp – which is only found in the Mekong River in Asia – is one of the most critically endangered fish species in the world. It is classified as critically endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species.
According to Newsweek, since 2004, no adult giant carp has been recorded, yet recently, a specimen nearly 1 meter long and weighing 6 kg was spotted at a local market in Cambodia, as reported by Mr. Chan Sokheng, a biologist from the Cambodian Fisheries Administration.
Although the fish was dead when found, there is still hope that this species may still exist in the 4,345 km long Mekong River and has not yet reached extinction.
The Mekong River flows through six Asian countries and is considered a “hotspot” for global biodiversity, home to nearly 1,000 different fish species, including some of the largest freshwater fish in the world. It also sustains the livelihoods of millions of people living along its banks.
However, scientists have recently issued continuous warnings about the immense pressure the river is facing due to numerous large and small dams, overfishing, and the impacts of climate change.
Not only the “Mekong Ghost”, but several other large catfish species in the Mekong River are also at risk of extinction.
