| Biology |
Occurs in lakes,
ponds, pools and backwaters of large rivers, preferring
large, slow-flowing or standing water bodies with
vegetation. Tolerant of a wide range of temperatures from 0°
to 38°C, and salinities to as much as 10 ppt and oxygen
levels down to 0.5 ppm. Feeds on higher aquatic plants and
submerged grasses; takes also detritus, insects and other
invertebrates. One of the world's most important aquaculture
species and also used for weed control in rivers, fish ponds
and reservoirs. Spawns on riverbeds with very strong
current. Utilized also fresh and eaten steamed, pan-fried,
broiled and baked. Considered as a pest in most countries
because of the damages made to submerged vegetation. |
