A government subcommittee is intensifying its investigation into the introduction and spread of the invasive blackchin tilapia fish in the nation’s waterways. The probe, led by a Bangkok MP and deputy chairman of the subcommittee, is set to review importation documents and procedures at the Department of Fisheries next week. The focus is on ensuring that stringent measures are in place for the importation of foreign fish species.
The investigation follows reports that from 2013 to 2016, around 230,000 blackchin tilapia were exported from Thailand by 11 private companies to 17 countries worldwide. The fish that appeared in Thai waters in 2012 were not listed as prohibited at the time. The inquiry will also include a session with one of the importers to discuss their compliance with import conditions, including submitting fin samples.
The subcommittee said it would look into whether the DNA of the invasive fish matches that of the fish imported in 2010 for breeding purposes, which the importer claims were terminated in 2011. The broader goal of the investigation is to uphold regulations and prevent ecological harm from alien species. Legal experts will also be consulted to assess potential environmental violations and to discuss necessary amendments to current laws to better address such issues. (NNT)
