Native Fish Of Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is a landlocked country in Central Asia. The inland lakes and rivers in the country provide habitats for about 150 species, making fishing a widespread activity and source of employment.

Native Fish Of Kazakhstan

Northern Snakehead

The northern snakehead is a freshwater fish species native to most parts of Asia and parts of Europe. The fish is found in stagnating or slow-flowing water that have heavy mud and vegetation. The snakehead is capable of occupying land for two days before returning to the water. The snakehead feeds mainly on crustaceans and amphibians. 

The lake minnow

The lake minnow is a species native to Kazakhstan with its principal habitats in small lakes, shallow bays, swamps and human-made lakes with slow-moving to stagnant water. The fish hibernates during cold winter seasons. The diet of the lake minnow is primarily benthic animals and planktons that exist within its habitat. 

Beluga sturgeon

The beluga sturgeon is a critically endangered anadromous fish native to the Caspian Sea. The fish’s population is endangered due to overhunting and poaching. The fish is a worldwide delicacy, with the female roe making it a target for poachers. The fish is large, growing up to 16 feet and it is generally accepted to be the largest freshwater fish in the world. 

Xianjing stone leach

The stone leach is a benthic freshwater species native to Kazakhstan found mainly in slow-moving quiet waters with temperatures between 18 and 22ºC. The stone leach also prefers waters with dense aquatic weeds and can grow as long as five inches.

Fishing in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is renowned for its extensive fish activities along the rivers and lakes of the country. Most of the fish caught is mainly consumed for food while others engage in fishing as a sport or for trade. Extensive fishing has led to the decline in the numbers of some fish species making them endangered or vulnerable. The government of has made efforts towards the conservation of fish through regulation of fishing and establishing protected areas.