The Proud Baron

Akudi Gararva

The Proud Baron (Akudi Gararva) is a species of fish, historically available in abundance in the northeastern oceans outside The Society. It has been a staple food source and an important source of income for the eastern and northern regions as long as humans have lived in the area.
The fish is relatively small, between 20-30 cm in length, but lives in large schools with up to half a million individuals. The name comes from its odd shape, with the puffy front, short back and shining scales, almost resembling a person stretching proudly. The Proud Baron thrives in shallow, tempered oceans and lives close to the coastlines, where currents bring nutrients from the bottom layers of the ocean up to more shallow waters.

Exploatation and The Dead Baron desease

During the past few hundred years, the fish has been caught on an industrial level and has been subject to overfishing. The once thriving fishing industry has collapsed and no barons are caught on a grand scale anymore. Recently the stock has made a minor recovery and small fishing communities are catching barons again.
However, the baron which is caught and sold today is not what it used to be. The small population has over time led to inbreeding, making the fish very susceptive to illnesses. Because of this and the fact that it lives in extremely polluted waters, the baron is today considered a health hazard if eaten. The fish has developed black-reddish dots and streaks in its flesh and skin and the meat taste foul, almost putrid. The condition has led to the fish now being called The Dead Baron (Akudi Ashou). The small amounts of fish that are caught today can only be sold to the poor who have limited choices of affordable food.

Lifespan

10-15 years

Average Weight

1.2 kg

Average Length

28 cm

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Significantly shining scales, which fades from a light gold at the top to dark green on the belly.