Bangkok: The Department of Fisheries has been mandated to intensively monitor and control the spread of black-chinned tilapia across high-risk coastal provinces. Minister Watcharapol has emphasized the need for a rapid response to manage the situation effectively, ensuring that the species does not disrupt the ecosystem. Currently, the situation is contained, and there is no necessity for additional financial assistance from the Cabinet.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Watcharaphol Khaokham, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, has instructed the Department of Fisheries to conduct urgent surveys in areas with prior outbreaks, and in newly identified locations. Key provinces under surveillance include Chonburi, Rayong, Chanthaburi, Trat, Samut Sakhon, and Samut Songkhram. Daily reports are being compiled to evaluate the spread and severity of the situation. While the spread remains limited, the need for extra budgetary support from the Cabinet has not arisen.
The Deputy Minister has outlined a two-pronged approach for the Department of Fisheries: to contain and eradicate the black-chinned tilapia while promoting its economic use. Both short-term and long-term strategies are being developed, with collaboration planned with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation. The aim is to use technology and innovation to sustainably manage the tilapia population. Currently, black-chinned tilapia is being used to produce bio-fermented liquid, enhancing agricultural yields as reported by fruit farmers in Chanthaburi province.
Despite concerns about potential cross-border spread, the Department of Fisheries assures that there is no such indication, maintaining that the situation is under control. Furthermore, Mr. Watcharaphol dismissed the notion of renaming the species for psychological reasons, stating that the focus remains on managing the species effectively to restore ecological balance.