Following the initial stir caused by a local angler’s catch at Klau Dam in Raub, Pahang, authorities have provided an official update regarding the controversial fish.
Berita Harian reported that photos and video footage of a fish allegedly identified as a red-bellied piranha (Pygocentrus nattereri) found at the Klau Dam in Raub, Pahang, recently, are consistent with the morphological characteristics of the Pygocentrus genus, which includes piranha species.
Consistent with piranha characteristics, but specimen discarded
Fisheries Department director-general Datuk Adnan Hussain said in a statement that the finding was based on a technical assessment by the Fisheries Research Institute (FRI) in Glami Lemi, Negeri Sembilan.
He said, however, that a definitive identification at species level could not be made as no physical specimen was available for further examination. The fish was reportedly disposed of by the individual who caught it after it died, before an investigation could be carried out.
“So far, only a single fish has been reported caught in the area. Investigations and field monitoring by the Pahang State Fisheries Office up to 15 September did not record any additional catches or related safety incidents in the vicinity,” Datuk Adnan stated.
No evidence of a breeding population
Addressing public anxiety over whether the aggressive South American predators might have taken over the local freshwater ecosystem, the Fisheries Department assured citizens that there is currently no cause for panic.
“Based on data and evidence obtained so far, there is no evidence to show the existence of a piranha population that has settled and bred in Klau Dam. The department will continue targeted monitoring to ensure any new developments are identified and handled accordingly,” he added.
Field checks confirmed that the lone fish was originally pulled from the water via a cast net weeks prior, and subsequent monitoring runs have yielded no further signs of the predatory species.
A stern warning against releasing foreign species
Authorities also issued a stern reminder to the public, stressing that releasing exotic or invasive fish species into public waterways is an irresponsible act that severely threatens native aquatic life and local biodiversity.
The department has advised anyone who happens to catch a suspected alien or prohibited species to refrain from throwing it back into the water under any circumstances.
“If a fish suspected to be a non-native species is caught, do not release it back into the water.
“Keep the specimen if it is still in suitable condition and immediately contact the nearest fisheries office so that further examination and analysis can be carried out, including DNA testing if necessary,” he said.
While the situation at Klau Dam remains under control with no signs of an infestation, the incident serves as a sharp reminder of the ecological risks tied to illegal pet releases.
Also Read: Pahang Fisheries Department Probes Viral Claim After Angler Allegedly Catches Piranha At Klau Dam
