Thailand is facing a threat from the invasive blackchin tilapia fish, which has been wreaking havoc on ecosystems in 19 provinces. These prolific breeders can produce up to 500 young at a time, preying on small fish, shrimp, and snail larvae.
To combat this problem, the government has been working tirelessly to remove these destructive fish. Fishing authorities have successfully caught over 1.3 million kilograms (2.87 million pounds) of blackchin tilapia between February and August 28.
Not only are these fish causing ecological harm, but they also pose a significant threat to Thailand’s fish-farming industry. The government is concerned about the impact this invasive species could have on the country’s vital aquatic resources.
Nattacha Boonchaiinsawat, the vice-president of a parliamentary committee addressing the issue, expressed concern over the worsening spread of blackchin tilapia, highlighting the urgency of the situation.