Infotainment

Invasive fish a ‘ticking time bomb’ threatening native river life

Invasive fish a ‘ticking time bomb’ threatening native river life
Invasive fish a ‘ticking time bomb’ threatening native river life 3
Invasive fish a ‘ticking time bomb’ threatening native river life
Massive African catfish caught by the Slingshot Fishing Malaysia Club in the Klang River recently. (Muhammad Basir Roslan pic)

KUALA LUMPUR: The sight of the massive armoured and African catfish caught by the Slingshot Fishing Malaysia Club (SFM) in the Klang River is enough to send chills up your spine.

Each fish is as large as an adult male’s arm or thigh, with an average weight of 6-10kg. The potential devastation if these species were left to dominate our river basins is unimaginable. What’s more alarming is that both species have a lifespan of over a decade, and reproduce rapidly in large numbers.

“This is no longer a minor issue but a national concern,” said Azahar Khalid, a member of SFM who took part in the operation earlier this month.. “I’ve been an avid angler for the past 20 years and, over that time, we’ve noticed that native fish like the toman (giant snakehead) and haruan (striped snakehead) are becoming harder to find, when they were once abundant.”

During a previous operation, the group managed to capture over 200kg of armoured catfish, excluding other invasive species found in the same river.

Founded in 2020, SFM has 100 members and uses slingshot or catapult techniques with darts to catch invasive fish, particularly the armoured catfish native to South America.

“We use this harpoon-like method because the slingshot allows the dart to reach far distances, and the specially made metal darts can penetrate the thick scales of the armoured catfish. After that, we reel the dart in along with the fish,” Azahar explained.

Invasive fish that are caught are either sold to traders, disposed of, or turned into fertiliser.

Highly adaptable

Describing the dominance of invasive fish species as a “ticking time bomb” threatening native river fish populations, fisheries department director-general Adnan Hussain said the issue is difficult to address as many people fail to understand the impact of these species on the country’s river ecosystems.

“Invasive fish refers to species not native to the area but are introduced by humans for various purposes. For instance, tilapia and African catfish are brought in as protein sources, while koi and arapaima are kept as ornamental fish. The gambusia is used to control mosquito populations.

“Some invasive fish enter our waters unintentionally, such as through ship hulls, or escape from aquaculture enclosures,” he explained.

SFM
SFM is among the clubs in Malaysia that are active in catching migrant fish that disturb the local ecosystem. (Muhammad Basir Roslan pic)

Invasive fish, he said, fall into two categories: “naturalised species” do not cause harm, and in fact have been economically beneficial to farmers, such as the Javanese carp and Siamese gourami.

“On the other hand, invasive species that disrupt ecosystems pose risks that ultimately threaten ecological balance, as seen with the freshwater redclaw crayfish, which has proliferated since its introduction over 15 years ago.”

Based on a study, the dominance of alien fish species like tilapia, African catfish, redtail catfish, and armoured catfish primarily originates from commercial farming and ornamental rearing.

Research by the department’s Glami Lemi Fisheries Research Institute reveals that the armoured catfish, redclaw crayfish, and peacock bass are highly dominant in the waterways of peninsular Malaysia.

Adnan noted that while official data on the impact of invasive species on local river fish landings is still being compiled, the department has received numerous complaints from fishermen about declining catches of high-value fish, as well as damage to fishing equipment caused by invasive species.

“More concerning is the fact that invasive fish adapt easily to their environment, even in polluted rivers,” he added.

Looming danger

Adnan emphasised that the presence of invasive fish in river ecosystems creates intense competition with native species for food, space, and breeding grounds.

“Invasive fish are more aggressive and reproduce rapidly, which can drastically reduce the population of native species. Predator species, in particular, prey on native fish, disrupting population balance.

“One such predator is the redtail catfish, which poses a threat to local species such as the temoleh, kelah, sepat, and freshwater prawns. This fish grows quickly, further compounding its threat to local species.”

See also  FAM president seeks audience with Selangor sultan

Adnan also noted that some invasive fish burrow into riverbanks to create habitats and spawning grounds, altering habitat structures, affecting water quality, and indirectly damaging aquatic ecosystems.

Moreover, invasive fish can carry diseases or new parasites that can harm native species, he cautioned. Among diseases commonly associated with invasive fish are Edwardsiellosis, which can damage the liver and pancreas of fish; Columnaris, a disease that causes tissue decay in fish skin; and white spot syndrome, which threatens native species.

He warned that if left unchecked, invasive species could have a negative impact on the fisheries, aquaculture, and tourism industries, ultimately leading to economic losses for the country.

deadfish
Invasive fish will usually be buried in a hole to become agricultural compost. (Muhammad Basir Roslan pic)

To tackle the issue, Adnan said the fisheries department has implemented various programmes, including regular studies and monitoring to assess the current status of waters affected by invasive fish species.

“We have also actively implemented mitigation programmes, such as alien fish-hunting initiatives. Since 2022, 15 such programmes have been organised, involving state governments, local communities, NGOs, associations, private companies and universities.”

Adnan highlighted the positive results of awareness campaigns conducted among various groups.

“More citizens are now helping to reduce the population of invasive fish. For example, a community project in Sungai Kuyoh, Selangor, has shown impressive results, with invasive-fish catches dropping significantly from 600kg at one time to 159kg more recently.”

Adnan said the department is taking measures to ensure the sustainability of native species like the patin buah, kelah and freshwater prawns through breeding and reintroduction into their natural habitats.

A total of 13 native fish sanctuaries have been established to protect the habitats of these species. Under the 12th Malaysia Plan, 23.9 million fish fry have been released into their original waters, supported by an allocation of RM1.5 million.

Additionally, Adnan shared that the department collaborates with universities to gain insights from researchers studying alien or invasive fish species, in addition to partnering with NGOs and local communities to restore habitats, raise awareness, and educate future generations.

“Through these efforts, the department hopes to rehabilitate river ecosystems, transforming them into thriving habitats rich with life. This will provide a sustainable source of livelihood and priceless natural beauty for future generations to cherish,” he concluded.

Invasive fish a ‘ticking time bomb’ threatening native river life 3 kontraktor rumah
bina rumah
pinjaman lppsa
pengeluaran kwsp
spesifikasi rumah
rumah batu-bata
pelan rumah
rekabentuk rumah
bina rumah atas tanah sendiri
kontraktor rumah selangor
rumah banglo

Source

Kontraktor Bina Rumah IBS

LPPSA Kelayakan Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Rumah Kontena Pinjaman LPPSA Rumah Pasang Siap Kontena Murah Rumah Kabin Buat Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Pinjamana Perumahan Kerajaan Loan LPPSA Untuk Beli Rumah Kelayakan LPPSA Rumah Kontena Pasang Siap Rumah Pasang Siap Malaysia Rumah IBS Malaysia Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Selangor LPPSA Loan Kontraktor Rumah Kontraktor Rumah IBS Kontraktor Rumah IBS Di Selangor Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Batang Kali‎ Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Klang‎ Kontraktor Bina Rumah di 16 Sierra, Puchong Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Ampang Jaya Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Ara Damansara Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Balakong Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar Baru Bangi Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar Baru Klang Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar Baru Selayang Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar Botanic Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar Bukit Puchong 1, Puchong Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar Bukit Puchong 2, Puchong Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar Bukit Puchong, Puchong Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar Bukit Tinggi Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar Country Homes Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar D’Alpinia, Puchong Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar Kinrara BK 1 Sehingga 6, Puchong Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar Mahkota Cheras Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar Nusa Rhu Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar Puchong Utama, Puchong Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar Puteri Puchong, Puchong Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar Putra Permai Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar Rasa Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar Rinching Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar Saujana Utama Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar Seri Putra Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar Sungai Buaya Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar Sungai Long Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar Sunway Semenyih Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar Tasik Kesuma Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar Teknologi Kajang Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar Teluk Datok Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar UtamaKontraktor Bina Rumah di Banting Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Batang Kali Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Batu 9 Cheras Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Batu Arang Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bernam Jaya Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bukit Antarabangsa Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bukit Beruntung Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bukit Gasing Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bukit Komanwel Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bukit Lanjan Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bukit Raja Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bukit RimauKontraktor Bina Rumah di Bukit Sentosa Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bukit Tagar Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bukit Tampoi Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Country Heights Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Damansara Damai Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Damansara Intan Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Damansara Jaya Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Damansara Perdana Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Damansara Utama Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Denai Alam Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Dengkil Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Dusun Tua Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Gombak SetiaKontraktor Bina Rumah di I-City Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Kajang Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Kalumpang Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Kampung Jenderam Hilir Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Kampung Kubu Gajah Dalam Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Kelana Jaya Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Kinrara Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Klang Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Kota Damansara Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Kuala Kubu Bharu Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Kuang Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Kwasa Damansara Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Lembah Beringin Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Mutiara Damansara Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Pandan Indah Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Pelabuhan Klang Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Pinggiran Cyberjaya Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Puchong, Selangor Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Bandar Puteri Bangi Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Rawang, Selangor Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Sungai Rinching Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Sabak, Selangor Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Sekinchan Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Selayang Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Semenyih Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Serendah Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Seri Kembangan Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Subang Bestari Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Subang Jaya Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Taman Tasik Semenyih Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Tanjung Sepat Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Teluk Datok Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Teluk Panglima Garang Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Tropicana Kontraktor Bina Rumah di UEP Subang Jaya Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Ulu Yam Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Gombak Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Hulu Langat Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Hulu Selangor Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Kuala Langat Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Kuala Selangor Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Petaling Jaya Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Sabak Bernam Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Sepang Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Selangor Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Kuala Lumpur Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Shah Alam Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Kapar Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Meru Kontraktor Bina Rumah di Puncak Alam Kontraktor Rumah Bina Rumah Pinjaman LPPSA Pengeluaran Kwsp Spesifikasi Rumah Rumah IBS Pelan Rumah Rekabentuk Rumah Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Kontraktor Rumah Selangor Rumah Banglo Kos Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Syarat Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri LPPSA Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Kelantan Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Sarawak Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Kerajaan Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Sabah Pinjaman Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Kedah Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Kelantan Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Selangor Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Kedah Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Johor Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Terengganu Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Perak Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Sarawak Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri MelakaBina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Negeri Sembilan Bantuan Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Kos Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Pinjaman Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Syarat Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri LPPSA Loan Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Permohonan Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Cara Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Skim Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri 2021 Pakej Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Kelebihan Bina Rumah Atas Tanah SendiriBina Rumah Bawah 100k Kelantan Bina Rumah Sendiri Kos Bina Rumah 2022 Kos Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Kelantan Pengalaman Buat Loan Untuk Bina Rumah Bina Rumah Murah Kontraktor Bina Rumah Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Bina Rumah Bajet 50k Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Selangor Bina Rumah Sendiri Tanpa Kontraktor Bina Rumah Bajet 30k Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Kedah Bina Rumah Bajet 10k Bina Rumah Bajet 50k Selangor Bina Rumah SendiriBantuan Bina Rumah Atas Tanah SendiriKos Bina Rumah 2022Kos Bina Rumah 20×30 Pinjaman Bina Rumah Atas Tanah SendiriPengalaman Buat Loan Untuk Bina Rumah Kalkulator Bina Rumah Sendiri Pengeluaran Kwsp Untuk Bina Rumah Loan LPPSA Untuk Bina Rumah Kos Bina Rumah Bajet Kos Bina Rumah Kampung Bina Ayat Rumah Tangga Binatang Di Dinding Rumah Pinjaman LPPSA Beli Tanah Pinjaman LPPSA Ubahsuai Rumah Pinjaman LPPSA Beli Rumah Pinjaman LPPSA Bina Rumah Pinjaman LPPSA Untuk Beli Tanah Pinjaman LPPSA Untuk Bina Rumah Pinjaman LPPSA Beli Tanah Pertanian Pinjaman LPPSA Jenis 5 Pinjaman LPPSA Atau Bank Semak Baki Pinjaman LPPSA Semakan Baki Pinjaman LPPSA Semak Baki Pinjaman LPPSA Sms Jenis Pinjaman LPPSA Syarat Pinjaman LPPSA Kelayakan Pinjaman LPPSA Jadual Kelayakan Pinjaman LPPSA Tuntutan Pindah Rumah Pinjaman LPPSA Syarat Pinjaman LPPSA Bina Rumah Borang Tuntutan Pindah Rumah Pinjaman LPPSA Pinjaman Perumahan LPPSA Pinjaman Ubahsuai Rumah LPPSA Pinjaman Kedua LPPSA Pinjaman Kedua LPPSA Untuk Ubahsuai Rumah Pinjaman Perumahan LPPSA Vs Bank Pinjaman Bank Ke LPPSA Pinjaman Bersama LPPSA Pengiraan Kos Bina Rumah Sendiri Cara Jimat Buat Rumah Sendiri Bina Rumah Sendiri Tanpa Kontraktor Pengalaman Bina Rumah Sendiri Kos Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Sabah Pinjaman Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Kerajaan Kos Bina Rumah 20×30 Kos Bina Rumah Paling Murah 2022 Harga Upah Tukang Rumah 2022 Kos Bina Rumah Kampung Kos Bina Rumah Bajet Anggaran Kos Bina Rumah 3 Bilik Kos Bina Rumah Atas Tanah Sendiri Kalkulator Bina Rumah Sendiri Rate Loan Rumah Kelayakan Loan Rumah Pinjaman Perumahan Public Bank Interest Bank Loan Rumah 2023 Interest Loan Rumah 2023 Berapa Lama Bank Proses Loan Rumah Cara Kira Interest Loan Rumah Bank Loan Rumah Terbaik Interest Bank Loan Rumah Public Bank Loan Rumah Affin Bank Loan Rumah Letter Offer Bank Loan Rumah Rhb Bank Loan Rumah Calculator Hong Leong Bank Loan Rumah Mbsb Bank Loan Rumah Rhb Bank Loan Rumah Cimb Bank Loan Rumah Agrobank Loan Rumah Bank Mana Senang Lulus Loan Rumah Bank Rakyat Loan Rumah Bank Islam Loan Rumah Bank Terbaik Untuk Loan Rumah Bank Call Untuk Pengesahan Loan Rumah Bank Muamalat Loan Rumah Bank Yang Mudah Lulus Loan Rumah Bank Akan Call Untuk Loan Rumah Bank Mbsb Loan Rumah Bank Islam Loan Rumah Contact Number LPPSA

See also  S’pore seizes, freezes US$1.76bil worth of assets in laundering case

See also  Judge in Trump’s fraud trial threatened as case enters closing arguments