BANGKOK, Thailand – Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin has ordered the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) to investigate reports of blackchin tilapia near Bang Saphan Deep-Sea Port in Prachuap Khiri Khan province and increase monitoring to prevent the spread of the invasive species. Following social media reports that the fish had been spotted in the port’s shipping channel, the DMCR conducted field surveys on June 22-23 at the said location, about 800 meters from shore, using a squid-fishing vessel during both high and low tides. Officials found no evidence of blackchin tilapia at the reported site and instead recorded several native marine species, including flathead grey mullet, red cornetfish, tripletail, pufferfish, bigfin reef squid, and comb jellyfish.
The survey was later expanded to nearby locations, where blackchin tilapia were found at three sites but not on a nearby coral reef. Interviews with local fishermen and port personnel indicated the species has been present in surrounding coastal waters for at least seven years. Sampling recorded an average density of 61 fish per 100 square meters, with specimens weighing between 9 and 315 grams. The DMCR said it will continue monitoring high-risk coastal areas to track the spread of blackchin tilapia and develop appropriate control measures to protect marine ecosystems and biodiversity. Members of the public are encouraged to report sightings through local authorities or the Forest and Marine Protection Hotline at 1362. (NNT)
