HOKKAIDO, Apr 28 (News On Japan) –
In northern Hokkaido, Japan’s largest freshwater fish, the Itou, often known as the “phantom fish,” has begun its spawning season, migrating upstream in native rivers.
On April 26, utilizing small underwater cameras, observers captured a feminine skillfully utilizing her tail fin to scatter pebbles and create a spawning mattress, whereas a brightly coloured male in vivid pink “wedding dress” repeatedly modified positions to encourage spawning.
The Itou, a member of the salmon household, has traditionally reached lengths of as much as 2.1 meters. Today, this species is discovered solely in Hokkaido and is classed as “Critically Endangered IB” on the Ministry of the Environment’s Red List, indicating a excessive danger of extinction. The spawning actions of the Itou not solely spotlight their continued wrestle for survival but in addition the continuing efforts to know and defend this elusive species.
Source: Kyodo