Hatchery-reared F2 Mekong giant catfish spent their time above hypoxic water in the Mae Peum reservoir, Thailand

Abstract

Juvenile and young hatchery-reared Mekong giant catfish Pangasianodon gigas have been released into reservoirs throughout Thailand. For the sustainable reservoir fishery of the giant catfish, new science-based fishery management measures are expected in Thailand, such as the establishment of protected areas. Therefore, the habitat use and movement patterns of the hatchery-reared giant catfish have been investigated in the Mae Peum reservoir from 2003 to 2005. Our results suggest that the hatchery-reared fish spent their time in shallow depths above hypoxic water in the reservoir. The fish which have been reared in a fish pond may recognize and avoid hypoxic conditions.