Exotic fish, turtle pose threat to ecosystem

Lack of restrictions on import of some species of turtles is causing concern among scientists

Hyderabad: Exotic species of fish and turtles in water bodies are causing concern among scientists and officials of the Biodiversity Board as they are upsetting ecosystem. These exotic species are threatening the very existence of native species, according to scientists.

For instance, the “Tilapia Fish,” (oreochromis mossambicus), which has its roots in Africa, is a gourmet ’s favourite. It is originally an exotic fish. It has been first introduced in the name of “anti-lavarval” measure. Later, it has been adopted by aquafarms to cater to the growing demand for this fish.

Tilapia, which is grown in aquafarms, has found its way to most of the water bodies. This ferocious fish devour everything available in the water bodies. “We believe this is worse than than Pirahna (a voracious fish),” says Dr C Suvarna, member secretary, Telangana State Biodiversity Board.

While documenting on biodiversity at Ameenpur Lake in Medak, the Board found the species out numbering others. It revealed that that the aquafarms had flouted norms by farming the carnivorous fish. This species found their way to the lakes.

The costly export variety of fish has high demand. But, the scientists expressed concern that if no remedial measures were taken, in a couple of years the water bodies in Telangana State may not have any other varieties of fish other than carnivorous fish.

Similarly, the native turtles are basically herbivores and feed on plants and small sized snails. According to scientists, native carnivores live in big rivers. While on the other hand Red Eared Slider Turtle which is brought from North America as a “pet” is found in the fresh water bodies. Even though, smaller in size it can reach about 12 inches.

Lack of restrictions on importing this species has encouraged some to keep them as pets. There are 27 species of turtles in India. But, the Forest Department does not allow them to keep them as pets. The Red Eared Slider Turtle, however, which is being imported, does not come under the ambit of these restrictions.

After these turtles grow bigger, its owners release them into the in the ponds. “It is carnivore, it eats insects, dead animals. It can aggressively feed on fish,” says Karthikeyan Vasudevan, Senior Principal Scientist, Centre for Cellular & Molecular Biology.

By Md Nizamuddin