Many residents were astonished to witness thousands of black tilapia invading a waterway in Bangkok…
Footage from the scene captured this bizarre moment on July 13 (local time) along a river in the outskirts of Samut Sakhon, Thailand.
As reported, many residents were shocked to discover thousands of fish floating on the river’s surface. The sheer number of fish caused the entire area to appear black.
This invasive species has proliferated rapidly, consuming smaller fish and fish eggs, posing a significant threat to fish farmers in Thailand. It was noted that they were found in the Makkasan Wetlands, connected to the Chao Phraya River, accounting for 20% of the fish that became stranded when this 72,000 square meter wetland was drained in preparation for the rainy season floods.
The Thai Ministry of Fisheries has implemented measures to address the situation, including controlling the black tilapia population in aquatic habitats, releasing predator fish such as grouper into the wild, and utilizing the culled black tilapia, along with other strategies. This initiative aims to encourage local fishermen and the public to assist in fishing efforts.
This species poses a significant threat to fish farmers in Thailand.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt noted that black tilapia have spread from Samut Songkhram to other areas over time, with their numbers increasing in the Bang Khunthian, Thung Kru, and Bang Bon districts of Bangkok, affecting approximately 900 aquaculture farmers.
