Tiada ikan piranha ditangkap dalam program mitigasi di Empangan Klau

On September 26th, social media reported the discovery of a piranha-like fish in Empangan Klau, sparking various public reactions. Despite this, according to a report by Bernama, no piranha was found or captured during the two-day invasive fish control program at Empangan Klau in Raub, Pahang, which commenced yesterday. However, the Head of Fisheries, Adnan Hussain, noted that this incident should not be interpreted as evidence that the species is absent from the pond.

He explained that the presence of piranha had previously been confirmed in the area and that the control program was one of the efforts to monitor the invasive fish population and minimize the risk of disrupting local fish species. "No piranha was found or captured throughout the program. However, monitoring and scientific assessment should continue to determine the presence and distribution of the species," he stated in a press release.

Prior to this, social media had reported the discovery of a fish resembling a piranha in Empangan Klau, prompting widespread public reaction. The agency clarified in a statement that in addition to netting activities, an environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis was also conducted during the program to help monitor the potential presence of piranha in Empangan Klau.

This method involves analyzing water samples for genetic material that may have been left behind by aquatic organisms. "The final decision on the eDNA investigation will be determined after the analysis and scientific assessment process is completed. Any conclusions regarding the presence of piranha in Empangan Klau should take into account the results of the analysis together with the monitoring data and field evidence," he added.

The control program, which covered an area of approximately 25 square kilometers, involved around 150 participants, including 100 fishermen, 32 hikers, and 18 anglers. Throughout the program, a total of 156.6 kg of invasive fish was recorded, involving three main species: Peacock Bass, Tilapia Zebra, and Javanese Catfish.