Legends about colossal catfish in the Chernobyl exclusion zone have a real basis. However, scientists claim that their impressive sizes are explained by natural reasons, not mutations from radiation.
There were indeed very large catfish in the Chernobyl zone, but their impressive sizes were not related to radiation exposure. The fish grew actively due to constant feeding and the complete absence of fishing. After 2018, there were almost no catfish left in the cooling pond of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant.
Stories about giant fish in this unique area are partially supported by facts. Denis Vishnevsky, head of the scientific department of the Chernobyl Radiation-Ecological Biosphere Reserve, discussed this in an interview with RBK-Ukraine.
According to him, the largest catfish were observed in the cooling pond of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant and in the inflow channels. It was there that the fish received regular and abundant feeding. "The station staff, passing by these water bodies from the cafeteria, fed the fish," he explained.
Why Did Catfish Reach Gigantic Sizes?
The scientist emphasizes that catfish have a natural ability to grow throughout their lives. If they are not caught and are provided with sufficient food, they can reach truly impressive sizes.
Recorded specimens exceeded one and a half meters in length, which served as fertile ground for numerous rumors about "anomalous" fish.
What Has Changed in the Water Bodies in Recent Years?
The situation changed dramatically after 2018, when the decommissioning of the cooling ponds began. The water level significantly decreased, which had a substantial impact on the fish population.
"After that, catfish were not seen there," noted Vishnevsky. At the same time, in the natural water bodies of the region, particularly in the Pripyat River, these fish may still inhabit to this day, according to specialists.
40 Years After Chernobyl: What Was Hidden About the Catastrophe
The real consequences of the disaster became known not immediately, as the authorities feared panic and therefore concealed the truth. Unfortunately, the risk of a repeat catastrophe exists.
Modern nuclear power plants have a much higher level of protection; however, war creates new threats and entirely new accident scenarios.
