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Chanos chanos, commonly known as the milkfish, is a widely distributed species found in tropical and subtropical waters. As the sole living species in the family Chanidae, it holds great economic and ecological importance, particularly in aquaculture and fisheries. Milkfish are known for their adaptability and fast growth, making them a key species in sustainable fish farming.
No 560 Pambala South, Kakkapalliya, Sri Lanka
The milkfish has a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body covered in silvery scales. It can grow up to 1.8 meters in length, though most individuals range between 50–100 cm. Its deeply forked tail and large eyes are adaptations for swift swimming and predator avoidance. Lacking teeth, the milkfish primarily feeds on small, soft food particles through filter feeding.
Chanos chanos is a euryhaline species, meaning it can tolerate a wide range of salinities. It inhabits coastal waters, estuaries, and even freshwater lakes. Found across the Indo-Pacific region, its range extends from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Pacific Islands, including the Philippines, Indonesia, and Hawaii. Juveniles often migrate from the open ocean to brackish estuaries before maturing.
Chanos chanos is primarily herbivorous, feeding on plankton, algae, detritus, and organic material found in coastal and freshwater environments. Juveniles tend to consume microscopic plants and zooplankton, while adults shift toward a diet rich in algae and plant-based material. Their ability to thrive on naturally occurring food sources makes them ideal candidates for aquaculture.
Milkfish exhibit external fertilization, with females releasing thousands to millions of eggs into the water column. Spawning usually occurs in open seas, often near coral reefs, where eggs and larvae drift with ocean currents before settling in coastal nurseries. Juveniles migrate inland to brackish or freshwater habitats to grow before returning to the ocean.
Milkfish play an essential role in maintaining ecological balance in their habitats. By consuming algae and organic detritus, they help regulate primary productivity in coastal and estuarine ecosystems. Their wide distribution also makes them an important food source for larger predatory fish and seabirds.
Chanos chanos is not considered endangered and is widely cultivated in aquaculture. However, threats such as habitat destruction, coastal pollution, and overfishing of wild juveniles for aquaculture can impact local populations. Sustainable fish farming practices and conservation of mangrove and estuarine habitats are crucial for maintaining stable wild stocks.
The milkfish (Chanos chanos) is an ecologically and economically valuable species with a unique ability to thrive in diverse aquatic environments. Its resilience, rapid growth, and adaptability have made it a cornerstone of aquaculture in many tropical regions. Ensuring sustainable management and conservation of its natural habitats will support both biodiversity and food security for future generations.
