VIE
Residents living along the Lo River in Doan Hung District (Phu Tho) reap significant benefits from raising Chiên fish, a species dubbed the "freshwater monster."
Chiên fish, a type of catfish, is known for its bizarre appearance, with a mottled black body, an unusually large head, and an odd shape. With its massive size—capable of growing over 50 kilograms as an adult—and its aggressive nature, it prefers fast-flowing waters, rocky caves, and steep riverbanks. Fishermen along the Lo River in Phu Tho Province have nicknamed this species the "freshwater monster" or the "lord of the riverbed."
Chiên fish is regarded as the best among all aquatic species caught in the Lo River. It is said to have been a royal delicacy, renowned for its exceptional meat quality, which is firm, golden as if marinated with turmeric, and free of tiny bones, with only a single backbone. The larger the fish, the firmer the meat.
Notably, this species has a large, thick stomach resembling that of a pig, with a crispy texture. This unique feature makes it a prized catch among local fishermen.
The fish's head is significantly larger than its body. (Photo: To Cong)
