In response to the aggressive breeding behaviour and potential threats posed to native fish populations, the Bangladesh government has recently imposed a ban on suckermouth catfish (Hypostomus plecostomus). Originally introduced as an aquarium species in the 1980s, the suckermouth catfish has proliferated in local water bodies, jeopardizing the country’s main sources of native fish.
Given the invasive nature of this species and its negative impact on local aquatic ecosystems, the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock issued a gazette notification on January 11, officially prohibiting the cultivation, breeding, transportation, sale, and conservation of suckermouth catfish. The decision was made following a public notification seeking input from the public and experts, with the goal of declaring the fish as “malicious and banned” through amendments to the existing Protection and Conservation of Fish Act 1950.
The Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute (BFRI) conducted a study to understand the reasons behind the proliferation of this exotic species and its adverse effects on local fish resources. Researchers identified the suckermouth catfish as distinct from local species due to its omnivorous diet and higher reproductive capacity. The species has thrived even in highly polluted waters, such as the Buriganga River, where oxygen levels are critically low.
Md. Anisur Rahman, the director of BFRI, emphasized the malicious nature of the species based on their findings. He noted that suckermouth catfish exhibit unusual dietary habits and reproductive capabilities, making them highly populated and larger in size. The fish poses a threat to native fish species, disrupting aquatic food chains and impacting aquatic plant communities.
This regulatory move aligns with Bangladesh’s commitment to protecting its native aquatic biodiversity and mitigating the risks associated with invasive species in local water bodies.
