PANGASIIDAE Meaning and
Definition
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Pangasiidae refers to a family of large, freshwater catfish known commonly as the shark catfish or Iridescent shark. It encompasses a group of fish species belonging to the order Siluriformes. Pangasiidae is characterized by their sleek, elongated bodies and shark-like appearance, hence their name.
Typically found in freshwater rivers and lakes throughout Southeast Asia, particularly in the Mekong and Chao Phraya river basins, these catfish are highly adapted to their aquatic habitats. They have a silver-gray coloration with numerous small, shiny, iridescent scales, giving them a striking appearance. The average length of an adult pangasiid species is around one to two meters, and they can weigh up to 150 kilograms.
Pangasiidae are considered popular aquarium fish due to their unique physical features, active swimming patterns, and ease of care. However, it is important to note that they require large tanks or ponds to accommodate their significant size and need for ample swimming space.
Furthermore, pangasiids are valued by commercial fisheries and aquaculture ventures due to their fast growth rates and high-quality meat. Their flesh is white, flavorful, and relatively bone-free, making it a sought-after delicacy in many Southeast Asian countries.
Despite their popularity in various sectors, the viability of pangasiid populations is threatened by overfishing, habitat loss, and environmental degradation. Consequently, Pangasiidae is also an area of interest for conservation efforts and sustainable fisheries management.
Etymology of PANGASIIDAE
The word "pangasiidae" comes from the scientific classification of a family of catfish known as Pangasiidae. The etymology of the term can be broken down as follows:
- The name "Pangasiidae" is derived from the genus name "Pangasius", which is the type genus of this family. It was coined by Pieter Bleeker, a Dutch ichthyologist, in the 1850s.
- The genus name "Pangasius" comes from the Malay/Indonesian word "pangas", which refers to a type of catfish found in the region.
- The suffix "-idae" is a common way to denote a family or subfamily in taxonomy. It is derived from the Greek word "eidos", meaning "appearance" or "form".
