Islamabad: The rapid spread of invasive fish species in the rivers of Sindh and Punjab has posed a serious threat to Pakistan’s local aquatic ecosystem, raising concerns among environmental experts and conservation organizations.
According to WWF Pakistan, the growing presence of foreign fish species in Sindh and Punjab is causing significant damage to native fish populations and disrupting the natural ecological balance. The organization said that on January 4, an unusual fish brought from Sukkur to Karachi Fish Harbor was identified by experts as the Amazon sailfin catfish, an invasive species known for its aggressive spread.
WWF Pakistan stated that the species has now spread so extensively across Pakistan’s water bodies that controlling or eliminating it has become extremely difficult. Experts noted that invasive fish reproduce rapidly and displace native species by competing for food and habitat.
The report explained that such fish are often imported for home aquariums but later released into natural water bodies. So far, 26 foreign fish species have been recorded in Pakistan, many of which prey on native fish, spread new diseases, and severely damage rivers and lakes.
WWF Pakistan highlighted that major invasive species found in the country include the Amazon sailfin catfish from Latin America, pacu fish, and red-bellied tilapia. Pacu fish have been reported in the Chenab River and Kandhkot areas, where they are destroying native species and disturbing ecological balance, while red-bellied tilapia and other invasive species are harming aquatic production.
WWF Pakistan has called for an immediate ban on the import of foreign fish species and the establishment of a strong quarantine system to protect local aquatic life and preserve the natural ecosystem.
