Invasive fish threaten Tasik Timah Tasoh ecosystem, Perlis warns
PADANG BESAR: The Perlis government has raised the alarm over invasive fish species in Tasik Timah Tasoh, warning that their unchecked spread could severely disrupt the lake's native ecosystem if not urgently addressed.
The lake in Beseri is now under ecological pressure due to the rising numbers of aggressive non-native species such as peacock bass.
State Agriculture, Plantation Industries and Consumer Affairs Committee chairman Razali Saad said both the state government and the Fisheries Department believe these invasive fish are disrupting the lake's delicate natural balance.
"These species compete with native fish for food and territory. Their feeding behaviour is more aggressive, often pushing out local species and disturbing their habitat," he told reporters today.
Razali said the Fisheries Department has observed that these invasive fish prey on eggs, larvae and small native fish, leading to a sharp decline in native populations.
"This not only disrupts the natural food chain, but can also lead to the extinction of some native species," he added.
Razali said the state and the Fisheries Department are actively conducting awareness programmes to educate locals about the dangers of releasing non-native fish into the lake, a practice that could hurt both the ecosystem and the incomes of freshwater fishermen.
"These invasive species also have little market value. To control their numbers, the Fisheries Department has organised catch-and-remove competitions targeting peacock bass, involving locals and students from higher education institutions.
"According to department data, there are an estimated 10,000 peacock bass in the lake, and they reproduce rapidly. That's why we're working closely with the local fishing community to find practical solutions to reduce their numbers," he said.
He also urged the public to seek advice from the Fisheries Department before releasing any fish into public waters such as Tasik Timah Tasoh.
"Those caught releasing invasive fish species into public waters can be fined up to RM20,000," he said.
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