On September 3, Thailand announced that it has seized over 1.3 million kilograms of Black Mullet (Sarotherodon melanotheron) in an effort to eradicate this invasive species.
The Black Mullet (Sarotherodon melanotheron) has appeared in 19 provinces across Thailand, causing ecological damage in rivers, wetlands, and canals by preying on small fish, shrimp, and snail larvae. In addition to ecological impacts, Thailand is also concerned about the effects on the country’s vital aquaculture industry.
Black Mullet in a basket after being caught in a canal in Bangkok on July 15. (Photo: AFP/James Wilson/Thai News Pix)
Authorities have confiscated 1,332,000 kilograms of Black Mullet from February to August 28, according to Nattacha Boonchaiinsawat, vice president of the council established to address the spread of this fish. “We spoke with local residents and found that they have invaded more aggressively. They are found in small canals, which was not the case before,” he said. Nattacha noted that the explosion of Black Mullet could cost Thailand’s economy at least 10 billion baht (approximately 293 million USD).
The Black Mullet is a native species of West Africa, growing to lengths of 20 – 28 cm and typically featuring black spots on its chin. They can spawn up to 500 offspring at a time. They were first detected in Thai rivers in 2010 and spread rapidly by 2018. They are now also found in Florida, USA, and the Philippines.
It remains unclear how this species arrived in Thailand, but local media suggest they may have been imported by a company from Ghana in 2010. Nattacha stated that an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the invasion.
In July of this year, Thailand declared the eradication of the Black Mullet as a national priority and began encouraging people to consume them. Phetchaburi Province has promoted fish sauce and sausages made from this species. Restaurants are also increasing their use in dishes, frying them with garlic or drying them.
Thailand is incentivizing locals to catch Black Mullet by offering 15 baht (0.42 USD) per kilogram. Additionally, the country has designated 75 fish sale areas nationwide. Authorities are releasing predatory animals to hunt them and are developing genetically modified Black Mullet to create sterile offspring.
