China is home to a vast array of fish species, thanks to its extensive coastline, numerous rivers, and diverse aquatic ecosystems. With over 34,000 species of plants and animals, China is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world.
Freshwater Fish Species in China:
Koi Carp: A stocky, large-scaled fish widely raised for human consumption and considered a symbol of strength and determination in Chinese culture.
Common Carp: An important fish species in Chinese aquaculture, known for its rapid growth and cultural significance.
Goldfish: A popular freshwater fish native to China, domesticated over a millennium ago, and prized for its ornamental value.
Asian Arowana: A freshwater predator found in rivers and lakes, known for its majestic appearance and ability to breathe atmospheric air.
White Cloud Mountain Minnow: A small, endangered fish species found in the Pearl River and Hainan Island, prized for its silver-green color and red marks on its fins.
Marine Fish Species in China:
Chinese Sturgeon: A critically endangered fish species that can grow up to 16 feet long and weigh over 1,100 pounds.
Giant Yellow Croaker: A large fish that can grow up to 6 feet 7 inches long and weigh over 200 pounds, found in the Yangtze River and other coastal waters.
Japanese Whiting: A fish species found in China, Korea, and Japan, often caught during spawning season between June and October.
Queen Angelfish: A colorful marine fish species found in Chinese waters.
White spotted Eagle Ray: A type of eagle ray found in China's coastal waters.
Coral Reef Fish in China:
Species Composition: China has a total of 2,855 species of coral reef fishes, belonging to 3 classes, 41 orders, 252 families, and 1,017 genera.
Dominant Families: Gobiidae, Labridae, Pomacentridae, and Serranidae are the most common families of coral reef fishes in China.
Distribution: Coral reef fishes are found in various regions, including Xuwen, Daya Bay, Weizhou Island, Hong Kong, Taiwan Island, Hainan Island, and the South China Sea islands.