Hucho taimen

The taimen, also known as the Siberian taimen, Siberian giant trout, or Siberian salmon, is a remarkable species from the salmon family. These striking fish can be found in rivers throughout Russia and neighboring regions, where they are targeted by anglers year-round. The taimen's habitat extends from the Volga and Pechora River basins to the Yana River in the north and the Amur River in the south. Additionally, they inhabit parts of the Caspian and Arctic drainages in Eurasia, as well as sections of the Pacific drainage in Mongolia and Russia.

Taimen prefer flowing water and are sometimes found near the mouths of tributaries in lakes. Unlike some other fish, they do not migrate to the sea, but they do exhibit increased movement during spawning periods. Interestingly, the taimen is often regarded as a subspecies of the huchen. Their coloration ranges from olive green to reddish-brown, and they rank among the largest salmonids. Mature taimen typically weigh between 15 to 30 kilograms and can reach an impressive length of 70 to 180 centimeters.

As adults, taimen primarily feed on other fish but are opportunistic feeders, consuming rodents and birds as well. These fish have become increasingly popular among anglers, who often practice catch-and-release to help protect their populations. Although some commercial harvesting still occurs, there are ongoing conservation efforts due to the taimen's slow growth and reproduction rates.

Taimen also hold a special place in folklore. In Mongolian and Chinese legends, they are often depicted as giant fish trapped in ice or as mythical creatures in Kanas Lake. National Geographic has even nicknamed the taimen the "Mongolian Terror Trout" highlighting their legendary status and formidable presence.