The catching of six rare giant catfish in Cambodia in the space of five days, some weighing more than 120 kg (265 lbs), has raised hopes of a revival of a critically endangered species that is among the world's largest freshwater fish.

As many as 43 giant catfish were netted at Kaeng Krachan Dam in Phetchaburi, with the largest tipping the scales at 182 kilogrammes, much to the delight of fishermen, after hunting season opened on Monday last week.