Introduction
The Pangasius fish, often referred to as “basa” or “pangasius catfish,” belongs to the Pangasiidae family. While native to the Mekong River Basin in Southeast Asia, this freshwater species has gained international recognition due to its rapid growth, adaptability, and high market value. In recent years, it has been introduced to parts of Nigeria for aquaculture trials and research.
With the growing demand for affordable fish protein, Pangasius farming could become a game-changer in Nigeria’s aquaculture sector, provided it is introduced sustainably and managed effectively.
Image: Giant Pangasius Catfish
Source: https://images.app.goo.gl/dgX4BEHwb7CmFyjP7
Habitat and Physical Characteristics
Pangasius thrives in large freshwater bodies, including rivers and pond systems with moderate to low current. It has a long, torpedo-shaped body with a bluish-grey back and a silver-white underside. The species is characterized by its ability to tolerate low oxygen levels and its high survival rate in various conditions.
- Scientific name: Pangasius hypophthalmus
- Common names: Basa fish, Tra fish, Swai
- Average weight at harvest: 1.5–2.5 kg
- Growth cycle: 6–8 months under ideal conditions
- Preferred temperature: 22–30°C
Its ability to adjust to high stocking densities and less-than-ideal water conditions makes Pangasius suitable for intensive farming systems, especially in developing countries.
Feeding Behavior and Growth Rate
Pangasius is an omnivore, feeding on both plant and animal material. In captivity, it adapts well to pelleted feed containing 25–28% crude protein. It also consumes plankton and natural pond organisms. Its feed conversion ratio (FCR) typically ranges from 1.4 to 1.6, which is significantly efficient when compared to other aquaculture species.
Because of its rapid weight gain, farmers can achieve harvest-ready fish in under 8 months, depending on management practices, feed quality, and stocking density.
Economic Value and Market Demand
Pangasius is widely accepted in both local and international markets for its:
- Mild, white flesh and neutral taste
- High fillet yield
- Affordability compared to other whitefish species
Vietnam leads the global Pangasius export market, generating billions of dollars annually. In Nigeria, where over 40% of animal protein comes from fish, Pangasius can serve as an affordable alternative to Clarias gariepinus and imported mackerel. It can also be a valuable source of income for small-scale farmers.
In fact, recent trials in states like Ogun, Oyo, and Kano have demonstrated Pangasius’ adaptability to local farming conditions. Pilot farms report lower feed costs, faster turnover, and fewer disease outbreaks when good management practices are followed.
Challenges and Risk Factors
Despite its promise, Pangasius farming comes with challenges:
- Biosecurity threats: Susceptible to bacterial infections (Aeromonas spp.).
- Temperature sensitivity: Growth slows during cold spells.
- Environmental concerns: Potential to become invasive if introduced into natural water bodies.
To address these issues, farmers should:
- Use certified fingerlings from reputable hatcheries.
- Implement good aquaculture practices (GAqP).
- Monitor water quality closely (especially dissolved oxygen and ammonia levels).
- Follow biosecurity protocols and vaccination programs.
Conservation and Sustainability
Introducing Pangasius into Nigeria’s aquaculture systems must be done responsibly. The Nigerian Institute for Freshwater Fisheries Research (NIFFR), Bayero University, Kano, and other allied bodies continue to monitor and assess its ecological impact. While Pangasius does not currently pose a major threat to native species like Tilapia zillii or Labeo senegalensis, there’s a risk if escapees establish in wild ecosystems.
Sustainable Pangasius aquaculture can contribute to:
- Reducing pressure on wild stocks
- Enhancing food and nutritional security
- Creating jobs for youth and women
- Strengthening Nigeria’s fish value chain
Stakeholders must ensure environmental safeguards, proper regulation, and continuous farmer education.
A Promising Future
The future of Pangasius farming in Nigeria looks bright. With rising demand for affordable protein, limited wild catch, and a youthful population hungry for opportunity, Pangasius can deliver on both economic and nutritional fronts.
More investments in research, extension services, and access to finance are needed to scale up Pangasius production sustainably. Collaboration between government, academia, and the private sector will be key.
Let’s farm smart. Let’s farm sustainably. Pangasius is not just another fish — it’s a future-ready solution.
References
- FAO (2021). Aquaculture Development: Pangasius Farming in Africa https://www.fao.org/3/i4037e/i4037e.pdf
- NIFFR Research Memo (2023). Performance of Exotic Catfish Species in Nigerian Grow-Out Systems https://niffr.gov.ng/publications
- WorldFish Center (2019). Pangasius: A Global Aquaculture Success Story https://www.worldfishcenter.org/news/pangasius-global-aquaculture-success-story
- https://www.shutterstock.com/search/vietnam-pangasius
- https://aquapetventures.com/blog/2024/09/12/revolutionizing-nigerias-fish-industry-the-power-of-pangasius-farming-and-our-role-in-pangasius-development/
Author: Bashir Abdullahi Sani