Bangkok: The Director-General of the Department of Fisheries has announced an ambitious goal to eradicate an additional 3 million kilograms of the invasive black-chinned tilapia. The department is also expediting research on genetic sterility to address the proliferation of this species in natural water bodies and farmers’ ponds.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Bancha Sukkaew, Director-General of the Department of Fisheries, discussed ongoing efforts to tackle the invasive black-chinned tilapia problem. The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, through the Department of Fisheries, has prioritized this issue. They have implemented seven measures aimed at removing the species from ecosystems, including releasing predatory fish and capturing tilapia for use. Previously, over 3,500,000 kilograms have been removed, reducing the spread from 19 to 16 provinces. The Department of Fisheries has sought additional funding to target another 3,000,000 kilograms.
A key strategy involves research into chromosome in
duction to render the black-chinned tilapia sterile. Researchers are conducting a project at the Phetchaburi Aquatic Animal Genetics Research and Development Center. This approach uses genetic principles to control reproduction by inducing a 4n chromosome set in the tilapia. Male tilapia with 4n chromosomes will breed with natural 2n tilapia, producing sterile offspring with 3n chromosomes. The breeding study is currently in the experimental stage.
The research team is also refining the chromosome induction process by periodically checking chromosome sets to enhance efficiency. This aims to increase the number of black-chinned tilapia with suitable chromosome sets for release into natural water sources, thereby disrupting their reproduction cycle.
The Department of Fisheries is responsive to the demands of affected communities from 19 provinces. Four primary demands are being addressed, some of which are in legal proceedings. The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, through the Department of Fisheries,
is committed to addressing these concerns and restoring ecosystems to their original state.
