Black-chinned Tilapia Detected in Kalasin’s Lam Pao Dam

According to a report by Matichon Online, local officials in Kalasin province have initiated urgent measures to prevent the spread of the invasive black-chinned tilapia after 16 specimens were caught in the Lam Pao Dam. The fish, ranging from 3 to 6 centimeters in length, were discovered by local residents using cast nets.

This discovery is significant as the Lam Pao Dam is a critical water source connected to the Chi, Mun, and Mekong river basins. The Department of Fisheries is currently working to contain the population to prevent these predatory fish from migrating into these major waterways, which could severely disrupt local ecosystems and native fish populations.

For residents and travelers in the region, this development highlights ongoing environmental monitoring efforts. While there is no immediate impact on tourism or public safety, the presence of this invasive species may lead to stricter local fishing regulations or temporary restrictions in certain areas of the dam as authorities conduct surveys and eradication operations. It remains to be confirmed how extensive the population is within the reservoir and whether the containment efforts will successfully prevent the species from reaching the broader river network. Authorities continue to urge the public to report any sightings of the fish to local fisheries offices.