The Department of Fisheries Malaysia (DOF) has warned the public not to try to release certain or non-native fish species into Malaysian waters.
DOF took to their Facebook page to educate Malaysians on the invasive fish species that are not allowed to be released in Malaysian rivers, which includes six species of piranhas that originate from South America.
NOTIS HEBAHAN AWAM LARANGAN MELEPASKAN IKAN BUKAN ASLI KE PERAIRAN UMUM Jabatan Perikanan Malaysia ingin memberitahu...
Posted by Jabatan Perikanan Malaysia (DOF) on Friday, July 23, 2021
Guys, please take note! There’s a reason why these species are not allowed in Malaysian waters. They are dangerous and can kill humans and other marine life when they are distressed or threatened.
DOF added that these piranhas are being kept illegally by rare or exotic animal collectors and were smuggled into the country, but due to its high maintenance costs, the fishes were then released into nearby lakes, rivers or ditches causing disruption to the balance of biodiversity of the native species.
They also said that by releasing these invasive species into Malaysia’s waters, it will become dominant and quickly breed to dominate the territory as well as being aggressive to existing native fish species.
What’s worse is that these species have the potential to spread new diseases that could cause an epidemic in our waters. That's terrible!
Photo via Astro AWANI
The case will be investigated under the Fisheries Regulations, Fisheries Act 1985, which carries a maximum fine of RM1,000 or imprisonment not exceeding six years.
Definitely not worth going to jail for releasing a fish or turtle into the river! Please be responsible, guys.
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
