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What is a Panga?

Kelly Andersson
Kelly Andersson

The term "panga" is the common name for the Pterogymnus laniarius, a small fish common in the southeast Atlantic Ocean and the southwest Indian Ocean. Often called Torpedo scads, the panga is also found throughout the western Indian Ocean and in the Pacific Ocean from Japan to Australia. It travels in schools and feeds mostly on smaller fish. It is caught commercially in Indian waters, usually by hook and line or with beach seines or traps. Commercial catches are largest in Malaysia and Thailand, where panga is a popular food fish.

It's also a popular food item in France, where it's known for both its flavor and its affordability. Panga is usually sold fresh, but it is also available dried and salted in some countries. Known in Indonesia by a variety of names, including Besi hangat, Cencaru or Cincaru, and Kerongan, panga is a white-fleshed and flaky fish with a naturally sweet flavor.

Commercial catches are largest in Malaysia and Thailand, where panga is a popular food fish.
Commercial catches are largest in Malaysia and Thailand, where panga is a popular food fish.

The panga is a silvery pink color with a white underbelly. Bluish green stripes run laterally on its side, similar to a rainbow trout, and its head is bluish. Its sides are silvery, and it has two distinct dorsal fins. The panga has a pointy lower jaw and a single row of small teeth, with a large black opercular spot near the top of the gill. Typically from 12 to 16 inches (30 to 40 cm) long and weighing from 6 to 8 pounds (3 to 4 kg), the longest reported panga was measured at 31 inches (about 80 cm).

In Spanish, the panga is called the Macarela torpedo; other English names include finny scad, hardtail scad, and finletted mackerel. In some countries, the name panga refers to species other than Pterogymnus laniarius. In Indonesia, panga may refer to the Megalaspis cordyla. In Kenya, panga refers to the Trichiurus lepturus, and in Spain, Poland, and the Netherlands, it may refer to the Pangasius hypophthalmus. Panga is the main ingredient in a classic Polish food dish in which the fish is baked and then served with grated and caramelized root vegetables.

An adult panga fish transitions through intermittent sex changes. It's thought that about 30 percent of the fish in the species are hermaphroditic, with both sex organs present. Panga reach sexual maturity relatively slowly, and it may take as long as 14 years for the panga's natural population to double.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a panga?

A panga is a type of modest-sized, broad-bladed knife or machete commonly used in East and Southern Africa. It serves various purposes, from agricultural tasks like clearing brush and chopping vegetation to being a tool for fishermen and even as a household cutting instrument. Its versatility makes it an essential tool in many rural communities.

How is a panga different from a typical machete?

While a panga and a typical machete share similarities, the panga is distinguished by its unique design. It typically features a broader blade that curves upwards to a pointed tip, which is particularly effective for slicing through thick vegetation. This design offers a balance between weight and cutting power, making it a preferred choice in regions where it's used.

What materials are used to make a panga?

Pangas are usually made from medium-carbon steel, which provides a good balance between hardness and flexibility. The handles can be crafted from various materials, including wood, plastic, or rubber, offering a firm grip. The quality of the steel and handle materials can vary, affecting the durability and price of the panga.

Where is the panga most commonly used?

The panga is most commonly used in East and Southern Africa. It has become a staple tool in these regions due to its effectiveness in agricultural activities, fishing, and even as a means of self-defense. Its use is deeply integrated into the daily lives of people in rural and semi-urban areas where manual labor is prevalent.

Can a panga be used for self-defense?

Yes, a panga can be used for self-defense. In some African regions, it is not uncommon for individuals to carry a panga as a protective measure due to its sharp blade and ease of handling. However, its primary function remains as a tool for farming, fishing, and other utilitarian purposes.

Is the panga recognized in any cultural or historical contexts?

The panga holds cultural significance in many African societies, symbolizing self-sufficiency and resilience. It has been historically used in various liberation struggles, making it an emblem of resistance in some contexts. Additionally, its everyday use in agriculture and as a household tool underscores its importance in the cultural heritage of the regions where it is prevalent.

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    • Commercial catches are largest in Malaysia and Thailand, where panga is a popular food fish.
      By: Iryna Volina
      Commercial catches are largest in Malaysia and Thailand, where panga is a popular food fish.