In a remarkable event that has captivated the global scientific community, a 661-pound (300-kilogram) giant freshwater stingray was caught by a local fisher in a remote stretch of Cambodia’s Mekong River. This extraordinary catch has been officially recognized by the World Record Academy as the world’s largest freshwater fish, surpassing the previous record held by a 646-pound catfish caught in Thailand nearly two decades ago.
The massive stingray, weighing as much as three baby elephants, was caught in June 2022. The fisher, recognizing the significance of his catch, immediately alerted a team from the Wonders of the Mekong project—a USAID-funded initiative focused on the conservation and development of the Lower Mekong River Basin. Collaborating with officials from the Cambodian Fisheries Administration and the Inland Fisheries Research and Development Institute, the team measured the ray, tagged it with an acoustic homing device, and released it back into its natural habitat.
“The successful collaboration between government bodies, local communities, and USAID allowed us to officially measure, tag, and release this fish, providing crucial information that could help in conserving the species,” said Zeb Hogan, the project lead for Wonders of the Mekong.
This record-breaking discovery comes at a critical time for the giant freshwater stingray, a species classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The species has seen a dramatic decline across Southeast Asia, and this new data will be vital for ongoing conservation efforts.
“The Mekong River is a global biodiversity hotspot, home to more than 1,200 different species of fish, including this newly recognized record-holder,” remarked U.S. Ambassador to Cambodia, W. Patrick Murphy. “The United States is proud to support efforts to protect these endangered species and sustain Cambodia’s fisheries, which are essential to the livelihoods of millions.”
Following the announcement of this new world record, the Cambodian Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (MAFF), in partnership with the Wonders of the Mekong project, has convened a team of Cambodian and international scientists to develop tools for the protection of the giant stingray. These efforts will culminate in a comprehensive conservation strategy aimed at preserving the species for future generations.
“This effort aligns with our commitment to the sustainable development of Cambodia’s inland aquatic resources,” stated H.E. Has Sareth, a representative from MAFF. “We fully support the scientific and technical initiatives necessary for the management of giant stingrays and other critical aquatic species in Cambodia.”
Cambodia’s Mekong River, known for harboring more giant fish species than any other river on Earth, is also home to the Mekong giant catfish, giant pangasius, and several species of large carp. The giant freshwater stingray has become a symbol of the delicate balance required between river basin development and environmental stewardship, ensuring the Mekong continues to provide for millions in the region for generations to come.
“This world record catch highlights the importance of conservation efforts in the Mekong River, not just for the giant stingray but for the broader ecosystem,” said Chea Seila, Program Manager for Wonders of the Mekong. “This collaborative effort marks a significant step forward in our understanding and protection of one of the world’s most enigmatic species.”
The tagging and tracking of this giant stingray have set in motion an unprecedented study of its movements and behaviors, providing invaluable insights that will aid in the protection of this rare species.
SOURCE: WORLD RECORD ACADEMY
