Pangasius

Pangasius (mainly Pangasius hypophthalmus, also known as iridescent catfish or tra fish) is a fast-growing, freshwater fish native to the Mekong River and widely farmed in Southeast Asia, especially Vietnam. It has become a globally traded white-fish due to its mild flavor, affordable cost, and adaptability to aquaculture. Pangasius has a streamlined, scaleless body with a silvery sheen and is well-suited to warm, low-oxygen freshwater environments.

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Learn more about Pangasius

All feed formulas developed by Aller Aqua at the Aller Aqua Research Centre follow these requirements to ensure proper growth and health:

  • Protein Needs: Pangasius has moderate protein requirements, generally between 22–30% crude protein, depending on the growth stage. Juveniles need higher levels, while adults thrive on lower-protein diets.

  • Fat and Energy Needs: Lipid levels typically range from 5–8%, supplying necessary energy and essential fatty acids. Pangasius efficiently converts feed into body mass, making it cost-effective.

  • Essential Nutrients:
    The diet must be supplemented with:

Vitamins: A, C, D, E, B-complex – for immunity and metabolism

Minerals: Phosphorus, calcium, zinc, selenium – for bone health and growth

Additives: Enzymes, antioxidants, and probiotics are often included to improve digestion, boost immunity, and reduce disease risk.

The range of solutions developed by Aller Aqua is suitable for each stage of the fish lifecycle as well as the following farming methods:

  • Culture Systems: Pangasius is typically farmed in earthen ponds, cages, or nets placed in rivers or canals. In Southeast Asia, large-scale pond systems dominate. Trials in Africa and other regions show adaptability.

  • Environmental Tolerance: Pangasius thrives in warm water (28–32°C) and tolerates low dissolved oxygen, thanks to its air-breathing ability via a modified swim bladder.

  • Stocking Density: High stocking densities are possible due to the species’ tolerance – up to 20–40 fish/m² in ponds. However, water quality and disease control must be carefully managed at such densities.

  • Feeding Practices: Fish are typically fed 2–3 times daily, with feeding rates adjusted according to biomass and water temperature. Automatic feeders may be used on commercial farms.

  • Growth & Harvest: Pangasius reaches market size (~1–1.5 kg) in 6–8 months, making it one of the fastest-growing aquaculture species.

A carefully selected composition of raw materials and verified feed formulas ensure that the fish is rich in minerals and vitamins, and at the same time that the texture of meat is of the highest quality. We make sure that fish grown using solutions provided by Aller Aqua offer the following benefits:

  • Nutritional Value: Pangasius provides lean protein, is low in saturated fat, and contains small amounts of omega-3s. It is also a source of potassium, selenium, and vitamin B12.

  • Affordable and Accessible: Pangasius is one of the most affordable farmed whitefish globally, making it widely available and popular in both developing and developed markets.

  • Neutral Flavor and Versatility: The fish has a mild, neutral taste and a soft, white flesh that adapts well to various cooking methods (steaming, frying, baking, curries).

  • Sustainability (When Well-Managed): Pangasius farming can be resource-efficient, with good feed conversion ratios (FCRs ~1.5–2.0). Certified operations (e.g. ASC, GlobalG.A.P.) emphasize better environmental practices.

  • Food Safety: In regulated farms, pangasius is raised under hygienic conditions. Processed fillets are usually boneless, skinless, and free of contaminants when certified for export.