Piranha Empangan Klau: DOF kata belum ada bukti populasi membiak

A piranha fish was captured in Empangan Klau, Raub, Pahang on August 26th. According to the Malaysian Fisheries Department (DOF), there is currently no evidence to suggest that a piranha population has established and reproduced in the reservoir. The specimen was reportedly killed and disposed of by the individual who caught it prior to the investigation.

The Head of Fisheries, Adnan Hussain, stated that a technical assessment by IPP Glami Lemi in Negeri Sembilan found morphological characteristics consistent with the genus Pygocentrus, commonly known as piranha. However, confirmation of the species to a specific level cannot be made due to the lack of physical specimens for further examination.

Adnan added that only one such fish had been reported caught in the area, and the field investigation and monitoring by the Pahang State Fisheries Office up until September 15th did not record any additional catches or safety incidents in the region. The DOF advises the public not to panic, but the department will continue to conduct targeted monitoring to ensure any new developments can be identified and appropriate action taken.

The DOF warns against releasing non-native fish species into public waters, as this can harm local ecosystems, native fish populations, and aquatic biodiversity. Pahang State Fisheries Office continues to monitor Empangan Klau and the surrounding areas, and advises the public not to release any captured piranha-like fish back into the water.

If such a fish is caught, it should be kept in suitable condition and reported to the nearest fisheries office for further examination, including DNA testing if needed. The field monitoring will continue regularly, including recording any related information or catches in Empangan Klau and the surrounding areas.