Kalasin: Fisheries Department analysis confirms that a suspected fish sample caught in the Lam Pao Dam reservoir in Kalasin province is a "black-chinned tilapia." Previous inspections of the area had not found any additional specimens. The Kalasin governor is preparing a large-scale survey by relevant agencies on September 12 to assess the situation and plan control measures to contain the spread of the species.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Boonthong Paocharoen, the Kalasin Provincial Fisheries Officer, revealed the progress regarding the suspected fish found in the Lam Pao Dam reservoir. After sending samples to the Freshwater Fisheries Research and Development Division of the Department of Fisheries for species identification, preliminary analysis results confirm the sample is a "black-chinned tilapia," an invasive species. He expects to receive official confirmation from the Department of Fisheries within this week. Previously, on August 31, 2016, images and videos were circulated on social media showing fishermen catching what appeared to be a black-chinned tilapia in Ban Na Oan, Nong Suang Subdistrict, Nong Kung Si District, Kalasin Province. The fish was subsequently consumed. The Kalasin Provincial Fisheries Office, in collaboration with local Department of Fisheries units, investigated the matter.
Officials surveyed six locations around the Lam Pao Dam reservoir, interviewing fishermen and seafood buyers, and conducting random catches and inspections of aquatic animals in the area. However, no additional black-chinned tilapia were found. Therefore, it is not yet possible to conclude the extent or level of black-chinned tilapia distribution in the Lam Pao Dam reservoir, and continuous monitoring and surveillance are required. Following confirmation of the fish sample analysis, the Governor of Kalasin Province, along with the Provincial Fisheries Office, local administration, and related agencies, are preparing for a large-scale survey on September 12th. The Director of the Freshwater Fisheries Research and Development Division, Department of Fisheries, will also join the survey to assess the situation, evaluate the distribution of black-chinned tilapia, and plan control and containment measures to prevent impacts on the freshwater ecosystem and fish farming practices of local farmers.
The Kalasin Provincial Fisheries Office will continuously monitor and track the situation, coordinating with community leaders, fishermen, and the public. If any suspicious fish are found, please notify fisheries officials and collect fish samples for species verification according to scientific principles. Furthermore, cooperation is requested in refraining from releasing black-chinned tilapia or other unidentified aquatic animals into natural water sources to prevent the spread to other areas.