Suckermouth catfish outbreak in Dầu Tiếng Lake causes difficulties for fishermen as aquatic resources decline

In recent years, the rapid increase of suckermouth catfish in Dầu Tiếng Lake has caused many difficulties for local fishermen’s fishing activities. This invasive species not only affects catch yields but also negatively impacts the ecosystem and natural aquatic resources within the lake.According to many fishermen living around Dầu Tiếng Lake, in the past, each fishing trip could catch many economically valuable fish species. However, suckermouth catfish now account for an increasingly large proportion of the catch. These fish often cling densely to fishing nets, damaging and tearing the gear, while their low commercial value means fishermen earn almost no income from catching them.Many local households reported that populations of native fish species such as hemibagrus fish, carp, and silver carp have declined significantly compared to previous years. Meanwhile, suckermouth catfish reproduce rapidly, adapt well to freshwater environments, and have almost no natural predators, making control efforts increasingly difficult.Local fishermen believe that the strong spread of suckermouth catfish not only reduces fishing efficiency but also increases costs for repairing and replacing fishing equipment due to frequent net damage. Many people have had to reduce their fishing activities or change occupations because of declining income.

According to authorities, suckermouth catfish are an invasive species with strong adaptability, rapid reproduction, and the ability to compete for food with native fish species. The uncontrolled growth of this species threatens the ecological balance of Dầu Tiếng Lake, an important irrigation reservoir in Southeast Vietnam.

 

Given the current situation, many experts believe that effective solutions are urgently needed to control and limit the spread of suckermouth catfish while restoring natural aquatic resources in Dầu Tiếng Lake. In addition, raising public awareness to prevent the release of invasive species into natural environments is considered an essential long-term solution for protecting aquatic ecosystems. According to local fishermen, if no suitable solutions are implemented, the increasing population of suckermouth catfish will seriously affect the livelihoods of people who depend on fishing around the lake and further impact natural aquatic resources in the region.

Source: baovephapluat

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