ECNETNews Reports: Seminar Explores Surge in Blackchin Tilapia Populations
PUBLISHED: 11 Aug 2024 at 10:15
The rising prevalence of blackchin tilapia across multiple provinces may be attributed to smuggling practices, according to academic experts. Utilizing methods like electrofishing and introducing predatory species could serve as effective strategies for population control.
A recent seminar titled “Impact” was held at Chulalongkorn University, focusing on the alarming increase of blackchin tilapia.
Scholars from various universities and research institutions gathered to share insights on the issue.
Chulalongkorn University’s Acting President highlighted the widespread impact of this invasive fish, emphasizing the need for collaboration among experts to tackle the crisis.
This year’s seminar aims to produce actionable recommendations for government agencies responsible for managing invasive species.
The Vice Director of the Aquatic Resources Research Institute noted that blackchin tilapia has been present in Thailand for some time, introduced for commercial purposes without considering its ecological consequences.
“Now is the time for Thailand to focus on creating regulations addressing both legal and illegal imports of foreign species, prioritizing prevention,” she stated.
While questions remain about the origins of the blackchin tilapia, a leading aquatic science lecturer expressed skepticism regarding a single source for the fish’s spread across 17 provinces.
Insights from the Department of Fisheries suggest that the species was introduced multiple times, with initial reports of invasions recorded in several regions from 2018 to 2020.
“These events underscore the critical need for risk assessments and effective response strategies,” she added.
An electrical engineering academic proposed electrofishing as a viable method for addressing the infestation, citing its environmental safety.
Additionally, a genetics expert recommended genome editing technologies as a potential solution to manage the species effectively.
The Department of Fisheries is implementing two biological control strategies: the introduction of predatory fish to lower current numbers and the release of genetically modified sterile blackchin tilapia to prevent reproduction.
