Published in Paris Match in july 2020.
It is huge, a little scary and more and more present in French rivers. Catfish, a freshwater fish native to Asia that can reach 2.5 meters in length, was introduced to France in the 1960s. Since then, researchers and fishermen/fisherwomen have been questioning its integration.
An opportunistic species, capable of eating salmon like pigeons, the catfish is concerned about its adaptation to its environment.
Will it harm other species? Scientists are still asking the question. In the meantime, professional fishermen/fisherwomen, who wish to promote its use in cooking or cosmetics, are opposed to recreational fishermen, who shudder at the idea of catching the largest possible catfish.
Cover picture: Thomas Louapre.