Thailand has captured over 1.3 million kilograms of invasive blackchin tilapia, threatening ecosystems and fish-farming. The government declared eradication a priority, offering rewards for catches and investigating the infestation’s cause.
Thailand is facing an invasive crisis with the capture of over 1.3 million kilograms of blackchin tilapia, a species harmful to local ecosystems. These fish, prolific breeders capable of producing up to 500 young at once, have polluted waterways across 19 provinces, adversely affecting native fish populations, shrimp, and snail larvae.
Government officials express concerns about the implications for the vital fish-farming industry. Recent data reveals that 1,332,000 kilograms were caught from both natural sources and breeding ponds, with signs indicating the species is spreading into smaller waterways. The cost of this infestation to the Thai economy could exceed 10 billion baht ($293 million).
To combat this issue, the Thai government has taken measures such as paying locals for captured tilapia and establishing designated vending areas for sales. Additionally, authorities are exploring solutions like releasing predator species and developing genetically modified tilapia to produce sterile offspring. The urgency of the situation has led to the declaration of eradication efforts as a national priority.
Source : Thailand nets 1.3 million kilograms of invasive fish
