PANAJI: According to a study done by the National Bureau of Fish Genetic Research (NBFGR), 29 species of invasive fish have been identified in Goan waters, informed Dr Pradip Sarmokadam, member secretary of the GSBB.
Invasive species of fish are those which pose a threat to local fish, that are often eaten by these invasive species. The GSBB is thus working with the Fisheries Department to counter the threat posed by the invasive fish. “We’re first working in a smaller area, a small lake where we’ve put local species of fish and are learning how to make it invasive free,” informed Dr Sarmokadam. “Some species like the African cat fish have accidentally entered local water bodies. They may have been brought for fish farms or culturing, but once they enter dams or local water bodies, we don’t have control over their breeding,” he said. “These species can be very aggressive and harm local fish,” he added. Dr Sarmokadam also explained that just getting data on invasive species of fish, which local water bodies exactly they’re present in, and in what numbers was a big task in itself. “The GSBB has teamed up with Goa University to try and compile data about the same. Even though these species are edible and can be contained through some extent by consumption, they still disturb the balance of the ecosystem and need to be kept in check,” he informed. Meanwhile, Dr Giridhar Kinhal talked about invasive species of plants. Citing the example of climbers, which slowed down the growth of teak trees in some areas, he explained that as climbers were a part of the biodiversity of the ecosystem, it was necessary to let them be. “It’s okay if teak trees grow more slowly because of the climbers. Even though climbers are an invasive species, they add to the rich biodiversity and we need to let them grow,” he said.
