The Thai Department of Fisheries has formally requested biological samples and DNA from Ghana to investigate the origins of an invasive black chin tilapia species that has spread rapidly across Thailand.
Department Director-General Bancha Sukkaew told Thai News Agency that the request was sent to Ghana, the country from which a private sector entity had originally sought permission to import the fish for research purposes in 2010.
Thai scientists will now compare the DNA of the imported fish with those found in 17 provinces to determine if they are genetically linked.
The department has vowed to continue its investigation into the factors contributing to the proliferation of this alien species, which poses a significant threat to Thailand’s aquatic ecosystems and the livelihoods of local fishers.
In response to an order from Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Thamanat Prompow, the department has completed a seven-day investigation into the matter and submitted its findings to the ministry’s permanent secretary earlier today. (TNA)
