Authorities Find No Blackchin Tilapia in Lam Pao Dam

On September 4, 2026, the Department of Fisheries, in collaboration with local fishing networks, conducted an inspection at Lam Pao Dam in Kalasin province to investigate reports of potential blackchin tilapia sightings. The investigation, which involved checking nearly 100 fish traps and nets set in the Lhub Jan area of Nong Kung Si district, yielded no evidence of the invasive species. The catch consisted primarily of tilapia and native fish varieties.

Somsak Thonghun, Director of the Khon Kaen Freshwater Fisheries Research and Development Center, stated that while no blackchin tilapia were found, officials plan to conduct follow-up inspections in two weeks. Authorities are urging local fishermen to remain vigilant and report any suspicious fish sightings immediately.

For residents and visitors, this news is significant as it indicates that the dam’s ecosystem remains currently unaffected by this invasive species. However, officials issued a stern warning regarding the illegal transport of blackchin tilapia. Kalasin Provincial Fisheries Officer Boonthong Phaocharoen emphasized that bringing the species into the area—even for the purpose of creating social media content—is a serious criminal offense under Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives regulations, punishable by fines reaching into the millions of baht. While the immediate threat appears contained, the situation remains under ongoing monitoring to ensure the dam's biodiversity is protected.