In Vietnam, schools of the fish can be seen in lower reaches of rivers in northern localities, primarily in Bang Giang river of Cao Bang, Ky Cung of Lang Son, Chay river and Thac Ba reservoir in Yen Bai.

In Yen Bai province, the fish can be caught in the Hong (Red) River network, Chay river and mostly Thac Ba reservoir.

Statistics in 2013 illustrated that approximately 500 kg of fish are caught and sold in the province at prices of between 150,000 and 200,000 per kg. Many fishermen residing near the rivers of Lo, Gam and Hong make a living by catching this fish.

With such a rapid speed of exploitation, the fish volume in local rivers and reservoirs has been on the decrease. In 2013, the province’s centre for the application of science and technology launched a pilot project on "nganh” fish cage farming in Thac Ba reservoir which released more than 2,000 fish fry. 

The project aimed to complete a process of "nganh” fish farming using modern technology and homemade fish feed in the reservoir, and gradually transfer the technique to local people.

Implemented in 2013-14, the project developed a "nganh” fish farming procedure in fresh water, taking advantage of geographical characteristics of Thac Ba reservoir and contributing to the conservation of native species which serves as a scientific foundation for research.

After nearly seven years, the centre has delivered results of the project to some families in Vinh Kien commune of the province’s Yen Binh district. Outstanding achievements have been recorded so far.

Chairman of the Vinh Kien People’s Committee Nguyen Van Chien revealed that in 2019, the commune’s fish output surpassed 300 tonnes, with more than 70 cages. 

This year, it sets itself a target of expanding the scale to 100 cages and encourage local people to breed typical fish species like "nganh” and "nheo”, he added.

The project has offered a new fish choice for local breeders and changed the traditional view on aquaculture in the locality.