Tehran — Iran has begun exporting ornamental Pangasius fish to Iraq, marking a new milestone in domestic aquaculture, according to the head of the Inland Waters Aquatic Resources Research Center.

 

Abdolazim Fazel said Pangasius, bred at the center alongside two other ornamental species, has reached export-ready size, with 40–50 gram fish now being shipped abroad.

 

 He noted that the country has moved close to self-sufficiency in Pangasius production after years of reliance on imports.

 

Fazel also addressed the ecological situation in Gorgan Bay, saying the complete closure of the Ashuradeh Channel in 2023 sharply increased salinity and wiped out all 23 native fish species. "With water inflow restored and salinity levels reduced by about half, the natural recovery process has begun, though full restoration will take time."

 

He added that research facilities near Gorgan Bay and the Gomishan wetland are supporting both fisheries development and environmental rehabilitation efforts across Golestan Province.