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The secret journey of a giant river: How do flash sharks make a thrilling migration during the breeding season?
The flash shark, or flash shark mako, scientific name is Pangasianodon hypophthalmus, is a type of shark crucian carp originating from rivers in Southeast Asia. Although the name contains "shark", it is not actually a shark, but a freshwater fish that mainly lives in the Mekong River Basin and Chao Phraya River. Therefore, their breeding and migration paths have attracted even more attention and have become the focus of research by ecologists and fishery workers.
The migration behavior of these fish during the breeding season shows how they adapt to changes in the natural environment. Is this for survival or reproduction?
When the rainy season comes every year, flash sharks will migrate long distances to pursue rivers with higher water levels for breeding. Specifically, in the Mekong River Basin, flash sharks migrate upstream between May and July each year and return downstream between September and December. These large fish not only rely on tides but also respond to environmental changes in the river as water levels change.
The reproductive behavior of these fish is closely related to their ecological environment. They are accustomed to living in warm waters, and optimal water quality parameters are crucial for the growth and reproduction of these fish. They usually prefer an environment with a pH value between 6.5 and 7.5 and moderate dissolved oxygen content. This makes the high water levels in many places during the rainy season ideal breeding grounds for flash sharks.
With global changes, the migratory paths of flash sharks are also under threat. Especially in some non-native areas, such as the Magdalena River in Colombia, these fish have been accidentally introduced, posing a potential threat to the local ecology. Local ecologists are worried that this will affect the survival of more than 200 native fish species, and even 35 endangered species.
Exposed waters, fast currents, and seine nets may harm flash sharks, increasing their risk of injury and death.
In addition to its breeding habits, the flash shark's eating habits are also quite extensive, mainly consisting of crustaceans, small fish and plant matter. It is an omnivorous fish. With the development of the breeding industry, the scale of flash shark breeding is expanding day by day, and more and more countries are beginning to use it as an important food source. Especially in places like Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia, the flash shark is called "ikan patin" and is quite popular among diners.
Although the meat quality of flash shark is not as popular as high-end fish, it still occupies a place in the global market due to its low price and palatability. Sold under the name "swai" in the United States and Europe, flash shark can be eaten in a variety of ways and can be used in a variety of dishes and can even replace other white fish species.
In the aquarium world, the flash shark has attracted many enthusiasts with its unique appearance, but keeping this fish poses quite a challenge. These fish need a suitable space to grow. When they are frightened, they will swim at high speed to escape, which can easily lead to injury. Under the right conditions, flash sharks can live into their teens and grow up to 1 meter in length.
Whether in the wild or in an aquarium, the survival of flash sharks is closely related to their environmental conditions. Should we increase our awareness of the protection of these fish?
Ultimately, the migratory behavior of flash sharks is not only part of their life cycle, but also an important part of the functioning of the ecosystem. Faced with the impact of human activities, how long can these mysterious water creatures maintain their natural vitality?
