Climbing Perch (Kaoi Mas-কাৱৈ)

The Climbing Perch, known as "Kaoi Mas" or "কাৱৈ" in some regions, is a fascinating freshwater fish species found predominantly in South and Southeast Asia. This resilient fish is characterized by its remarkable ability to move short distances over land by using its gill chambers to breathe air, allowing it to traverse between bodies of water, particularly during the dry season. With its slender, elongated body and adaptable nature, the Climbing Perch thrives in various aquatic habitats such as ponds, lakes, rivers, and flooded fields. It feeds on a diverse diet consisting of small fish, insects, crustaceans, and plant matter, and its ability to breathe air enables it to survive in oxygen-deprived waters. Highly valued for its tasty flesh, rich in protein and essential nutrients, the Climbing Perch holds significant cultural and economic importance in many regions, where it is commonly used in local cuisine and aquaculture. However, habitat degradation, overfishing, and pollution pose threats to its populations, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts to ensure its continued survival.