The fish of longevity is served at funeral banquet. The family of the deceased would offer this kind of salted fish to the mourners as a sign of gratitude. The production process starts with the acquisition of carps that are kept for a few days in clean water until all impurities are eliminated. The carps are then washed and the scales removed. Their bellies are opened and internal organs removed (no water washing). The carps are then placed flat in a wooden barrel without empty space, sprinkled with chili powder and salt, and watered with a layer of pure sesame oil. The barrel will be sealed and stored until the funeral banquet is held. At the banquet, the relatives of the deceased try to use up the salted fish.

There is a custom of asking for longevity fish for good luck and longevity in Dong village. When an elder passes away, especially those who are 80 or 90 years old, many people come to pay their respects. The family of the deceased will give spare longevity fish to them, and sometimes use pork instead if no fish is left after the funeral banquet.

Some elders come to ask for longevity fish for their sons and grandsons as they believe it will bring their families good luck and make them live a long and healthy life.

(Translated by Yang Hong)