Rare albino fish caught in Satun canal sparks ethical debate

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod

A young man fishing along a canal in Satun province caught five fish but it was the last one that left him astonished. The unusual fish had an albino-like body shimmering in the sunlight, prompting questions about whether it should be kept or released into the wild.

News emerged yesterday, November 4, of a young man who had set out to fish and ended up catching a peculiar fish with a dazzling white body. Curious about its identity and unsure whether to keep or release it, he sought expert advice. The investigation led to a shop in the Piman subdistrict, Mueang district, Satun province, where 27 year old Apichat shared the details of his remarkable catch.

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Apichat, who enjoys boating and fishing, recounted his latest adventure. He went boating along the canals in Tam Malang, Mueang Satun last Friday, November 1 at 2pm.

The fishing trip was unlike any other. While he caught five fish that day, the fifth one was extraordinary. Its body was an eye-catching albino white, with iridescent scales.

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Its fins, eyes, and tail were tinted with a pinkish-red hue, making it exceptionally unique and peculiar. Upon returning home, Apichat sought the counsel of knowledgeable individuals to identify the fish.

Fishermen refer to this species as Pla Kod Khee Ling, usually green in colour. This particular fish, however, stood out with its rare albino hue. Apichat expressed his desire for experts to analyse whether this fish should be kept or returned to its natural habitat. Additionally, he mentioned that if someone were interested in purchasing it, he would consider selling it for a satisfactory price.

“I’ve never seen anything like it. It’s quite special and unusual. I’d like to know what kind of fish it is.”

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The discovery of this albino fish has sparked interest, not only because of its rarity but also due to the questions it raises about conservation and the ethical considerations of keeping such a unique creature.

Albino animals are often prized for their rarity and distinctive appearance, but they can also face challenges in the wild due to their lack of camouflage, making them more vulnerable to predators, reported KhaoSod.

What Other Media Are Saying

  • KGUN highlights Chris “Crash” Carnes’ extraordinary catch of a rare albino catfish during a fishing trip, showcasing his decision to release it back into the lake for others to enjoy. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions asked about this news

Why do albino fish like Apichat’s catch spark such fascination among people?

Albino fish are rare, and captivating due to their unique appearance, and raise intriguing questions about genetics and biodiversity.

How might the discovery of an albino ‘Pla Kod Khee Ling’ influence local conservation efforts?

It could drive research into genetic diversity and conservation strategies, highlighting the species’ ecological role and variations.

What if Apichat decides to sell the albino fish instead of releasing it?

Selling it could spark ethical debates regarding commercialization versus the conservation of rare wildlife specimens.

How do albino animals like Apichat’s fish fare in the wild compared to their normally pigmented counterparts?

Albino animals often lack camouflage, making them more vulnerable to predators and less likely to survive in the wild.

What can the presence of an albino fish in local waters tell us about the ecosystem’s health?

It may indicate genetic diversity or environmental changes, prompting further ecological study and monitoring.

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Puntid Tantivangphaisal

Originally from Hong Kong, Puntid moved to Bangkok in 2020 to pursue further studies in translation. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Comparative Literature from the University of Hong Kong. Puntid spent 8 years living in Manchester, UK. Before joining The Thaiger, Puntid has been a freelance translator for 2 years. In her free time, she enjoys swimming and listening to music, as well as writing short fiction and poetry.

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