When it comes to freshwater fish migration, the dorado catfish is considered to be the world title holder. It has to swim over 7,200 miles during its migration period. This incredible fish resides in the Amazon River and it is named dorado catfish because of its shimmering skin. The catfish can reach up to 6 feet long and its scientific name is Brachyplatystoma rousseauxii. It is suspected to belong in a family species of goliath catfish because of its great accomplishments when it comes to migration.
A team of scientists from all over the globe have recently confirmed this suspicion. The dorado catfish is now the record holder for having the longest fish migration in the world under the exclusive freshwater category. If one has to read the extraordinary life-cycle journey of the dorado, it will seem like a dream come true for adventurers because it has almost swum the entire width of the continent of South America.
The study started with four different species of goliath catfish that deposits their eggs in the western part of the Amazon. The dorado which is considered the long distance hero starts its journey as adults and pre-adults. Starting at the estuary in the Amazon River, it will begin trekking upriver until it reaches the spawning area located in and around the Ander Mountains. After the breeding fish have spawned, they do not come back to the nursery areas while the newborn catfish does. They have to complete the cycle by migrating thousands of kilometres going in the opposite direction.
It was discovered that the life-cycle migration of the dorado is around 11,600 kilometres or over 7,200 miles. The four species that were included in the studies are considered the most vital commercial species found in the country where they live but they are currently in danger because of development plans. There are many factors that affect these travellers including dams, mining operations and constant deforestation. With the help of the recent data, they hope that there will be a better conservation plan executed to preserve these extraordinary catfish.
If you are jealous of the record holder traveling catfish, book your next trip to South America soon with the help of online portals such as www.southamericatours.com.au.
