Thai Shrimp Farmers in Kalasin Fear Invasive Black-Nosed Crappie

In Kalasin Province, northeastern Thailand, shrimp farmers are expressing strong concern over the invasion of the non-native Black-Nosed Crappie (scientific name: Pomoxis nigromaculatus) into a dam reservoir. According to reports from local media MGR Online (Regional), 12 individuals have so far been identified in the Lam Pao Dam reservoir. This fish is native to North America and is not naturally found in Thailand's ecosystem. Past incidents have reported invasive fish outcompeting native species or affecting fishery resources within Thailand, and this new discovery is raising similar concerns. Kalasin Province is a major region for shrimp farming, and the dam's water is also used for agricultural irrigation and as a source for local residents' daily needs. Further spread of the Black-Nosed Crappie could have serious implications for the regional economy and ecological balance. Local authorities and relevant parties are reportedly considering and implementing measures to eradicate this invasive fish, but specific action plans and their effectiveness remain to be seen. Source: MGR Online (Regional)