Mekong Giant Salmon Carp
Aaptosyax grypus
A rare, river-running predator from the Mekong that grows to epic proportions.
About
The Mekong Giant Salmon Carp (Aaptosyax grypus) is one of the more extraordinary freshwater fish in the world, and also one of the least understood. Native to the main channel of the Mekong River, this species favors deep, fast-moving water over rocky substrate in the river's middle reaches, with juveniles tending to stay in tributary systems before moving into the main flow. It is a powerful, open-water predator that actively pursues fish near the middle and upper parts of the water column. A hunting strategy that, unfortunately, also makes it highly vulnerable to gill nets. Wild populations have declined sharply, likely due to some combination of dam construction disrupting its migratory routes and heavy fishing pressure. In the wild, adults undertake upstream migrations during December through February, possibly linked to spawning. This species can exceed 30 kilograms and reach well over a meter in length, which tells you immediately that it belongs in only the most serious of setups. This is not a fish for casual consideration. A four-digit gallon count is the starting point, and replicating the strong current and clean, well-oxygenated water it needs in the wild is a genuine challenge. A species for dedicated, experienced keepers only, and one that deserves respect given how precarious its wild status has become.
Similar species
Other fish you might consider
Good tank mates
Species that tend to coexist peacefully with Mekong Giant Salmon Carp
From the same region
Share the same natural habitat. Great for a biotope-themed tank
Frequently asked questions
- How big does the Mekong Giant Salmon Carp get?
- The Mekong Giant Salmon Carp reaches about 30.5–51" as an adult.
- What size tank does the Mekong Giant Salmon Carp need?
- A minimum of 1000 gallons is recommended for the Mekong Giant Salmon Carp.
- What water parameters does the Mekong Giant Salmon Carp need?
- The Mekong Giant Salmon Carp does best with a temperature of 72–79°F, a pH of 6.5–7.5, hardness around 1–10 dGH.
- Is the Mekong Giant Salmon Carp aggressive?
- The Mekong Giant Salmon Carp is aggressive and is best kept alone or with robust tankmates that can hold their own.
- What does the Mekong Giant Salmon Carp eat?
- The Mekong Giant Salmon Carp is an omnivore. It does well on a varied diet of quality flake or pellet plus occasional frozen or live foods.
- How long does the Mekong Giant Salmon Carp live?
- With good care, the Mekong Giant Salmon Carp typically lives 10-30 years.