Patna: Large catfish weighing up to 100kg have reportedly been found in rivers in parts of Bihar following floods in Nepal, according to local reports.
The sightings have been reported from Gopalganj and West Champaran, where fishermen have reportedly caught unusually large fish in river waters following increased flows from Nepal.
According to the report, the Bihar Department of Dairy, Fisheries and Animal Resources has advised people not to consume, buy or sell unfamiliar fish that may have entered local rivers with floodwaters.
Sightings Reported In Western Bihar
The fish have reportedly been seen near Mangalpur Ghat in Gopalganj, as well as Bagaha and Valmikinagar in West Champaran.
Fishermen in these areas have reported catches weighing approximately 15kg, 27kg, 40kg and, in one reported case, close to 100kg.
The unusually large catches have attracted local attention, with some fishermen reportedly attempting to weigh and sell the fish.
Known Locally As Baghar And Goonch
The fish are locally known by names including goonch, goita and baghar. The species identified in the report as Bagarius Yarrelli is also commonly referred to as a Himalayan giant catfish.
It is found in fast-flowing rivers in the Himalayan region and is different from commonly consumed freshwater species such as rohu and catla.
The species is described as a large predatory catfish that feeds on smaller fish and other aquatic organisms.
Large Fish Can Grow To Considerable Size
According to the report, Bagarius yarrelli can grow to around two metres in length, while individuals weighing 70kg to 80kg are possible, with larger specimens also reported.
However, the reported size and weight of individual fish found in Bihar would require verification through official fisheries records or expert identification.
The current reports have drawn attention to the impact that heavy flooding and strong river currents can have on the movement of aquatic species across connected river systems.
State Advises Caution
According to the report, the Bihar Department of Dairy, Fisheries and Animal Resources has asked people not to consume, purchase or sell unfamiliar and unusual fish carried into rivers by floodwaters.
The department has also reportedly directed authorities to ensure that the advisory is followed.
Officials and fisheries experts would need to formally identify the fish and verify their origin before definitive conclusions can be drawn about how they reached Bihar’s rivers.
