Carnivore fish poses threat to native species in Bengal
- Even though it is banned by the Center, the unauthorised cultivation of some unknown species of carnivore fish has become a big headache to the officials of West Bengal Fishery Department.
- It is believed that African Canal Catfish, commonly called as Thai Catfish (Clarius garipinus), have been brought, ‘accidentally’ into the sea waters of Bangladesh and India, from Thailand.
- Officials state that, for now, it is being cultivated in few districts of West Bengal, but if it enters the local water systems, it will create a major threat for natural local varieties.
- Since this kind of cultivation is not permitted by the Centre, it is certainly an illegal activity. However, there is bit of awareness among the fishermen about the illegality and the threats involved in the cultivation of these species.
Exams Perspective:
- Invasive Species