Rare Black Bass Spotted In Penang After 15 Years

By Lara Kramer  •  03 Sep 2026 in News

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A rare black bass, locally known as ikan kanai or tembaring, has resurfaced in Penang after a local fisherman caught one at Sungai Kuala on 30 August.

The catch marks the first reported sighting of the species in the area in around 15 years, according to the Penang Fisheries Department.

In a Facebook post, the department identified the fish as Lutjanus goldiei, a predatory estuarine species known for its strength and endurance. Its fighting ability also makes it a prized catch among sport fishermen.

While L. goldiei is more commonly found in estuarine waters in Sabah and Papua New Guinea, its appearance in Penang is notable given the species’ geographical distribution.

The fish typically inhabits tidal estuaries and coastal rivers, particularly areas surrounded by mangroves and nipa vegetation, which provide shelter and feeding grounds.

The department said the discovery at Sungai Kuala suggests the area has suitable ecological conditions for the species to thrive.

It also clarified that L. goldiei is a native species and should not be confused with the introduced largemouth bass, Micropterus salmoides, which has been recorded in other parts of the country.

As the species is rarely encountered and can be sensitive to environmental changes, the department urged anglers and fishermen to practise catch-and-release when they come across one.

The move, it said, would help support conservation efforts and maintain sustainable populations of the species in Malaysian waters.

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