Piranha at Klau Dam had no school

A single red-bellied piranha was caught in Klau Dam on August 26, suggesting the presence of a non-school population of the species. The Fisheries Department in Malaysia, after investigating up to September 15, found no evidence of an established or breeding piranha population in the area. Experts at the Fisheries Research Institute in Negri Sembilan identified the fish based on photographs and videos, but were unable to determine its species conclusively due to the lack of a physical specimen for examination.

The fish was reportedly dead when caught. Authorities urge the public not to panic but to report any catches of what they suspect to be alien species to their nearest fisheries office. Releasing such species could harm local aquatic ecosystems, fish populations, and biodiversity. The department will continue monitoring the dam and surrounding areas and raise public awareness about the risks of introducing alien fish into public waters.