Basa (fish)

Basa is a freshwater catfish species, scientifically named *Pangasius bocourti*, in the shark-catfish family Pangasiidae.

Basa is a freshwater catfish species, scientifically named *Pangasius bocourti*, in the shark-catfish family Pangasiidae. It is native to the Mekong and Chao Phraya river basins of Mainland Southeast Asia and is widely farmed for food. In Canadian markets, basa is sold as an imported white fish commonly used in everyday cooking.

Taxonomy

Basa belongs to the family Pangasiidae, a group of catfish sometimes called shark catfish. Its accepted scientific name is *Pangasius bocourti*.

Distribution and habitat

The species is native to freshwater systems in Mainland Southeast Asia, especially the Mekong and Chao Phraya river basins. It occurs in river environments rather than marine habitats.

Aquaculture and food use

Basa is an important aquaculture species and is commonly raised for commercial sale. It is marketed internationally as a mild, white-fleshed fish.

Market names and identification

Basa may be sold under different trade names in various countries. It is a catfish with a freshwater origin, which distinguishes it from many other white fish in the seafood market.

In Canada

Basa is sold in Canadian seafood markets and grocery stores as an imported white fish, so Canadian readers may encounter it as a farmed Southeast Asian catfish used in everyday cooking.