On April 10, 2025, provincial authorities in Prachuap Khiri Khan launched another round of a continuing campaign to eliminate the invasive blackchin tilapia from natural water sources. The latest effort took place at Khlong Bang Nang Ram in Mueang Prachuap Khiri Khan District as part of the “Next Move Prachuap” initiative aimed at restoring local aquatic ecosystems.
The campaign, known locally as “Long Kaek – Long Khlong”, encourages community-wide participation in controlling the spread of blackchin tilapia (Sarotherodon melanotheron), a non-native species that threatens native aquatic life. The operation at Khlong Bang Nang Ram involved the manual removal of the fish, alongside demonstrations on how to produce bio-fermented solutions from the harvested fish, a method introduced to promote sustainable disposal.
A key component of the day’s activities was the release of predator fish, specifically 5-7 inch Asian sea bass (Lates calcarifer), into the canal to help curb the population of blackchin tilapia larvae naturally. The bio-fermentation process, demonstrated by the Land Development Station of Prachuap Khiri Khan, is part of a broader ecological approach promoted by the provincial government to make use of the removed fish and reduce waste.
According to the provincial fisheries office, blackchin tilapia have been detected in all eight districts of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province. Since March 2024, the department has coordinated regular removal efforts in collaboration with government agencies, private sector partners, and local communities. This operation marked the 68th round of such efforts, which are carried out monthly in each district to stabilize the aquatic ecosystem and reduce the invasive species’ impact.
Results from earlier operations indicate a significant decline in the presence of blackchin tilapia in natural water bodies. The frequency of sightings has now narrowed to only a few remaining canals. Similarly, reports from local fish farmers using natural ponds suggest a marked reduction, attributed in part to the government’s buy-back program, which converts the fish into bio-fermented products. In response to the ongoing success, the Department of Fisheries has allocated an additional 104 tonnes for purchase from local fishers to support the continued eradication efforts.
Local officials, including the Governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan Sitthichai Sawatsan, fisheries department representatives, environmental officers, corrections department staff, and members of the local fishing community, participated in the event, reinforcing the campaign’s collective approach.
