Urgent Alert: NGT Demands Immediate Action from Centre on Risky Invasive Fish Strategy for Mosquito Control in Assam!

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has called for a response from the central government concerning the use of two highly-invasive alien fish species, Gambusia Affinis (Mosquitofish) and Poecilia Reticulata (Guppy), as biological agents in mosquito control. These fish have been introduced into water bodies in various states, including Assam, to curb mosquito populations.

The plea presented to the tribunal highlighted that Mosquitofish have been released in states like Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, Punjab, and Andhra Pradesh. Meanwhile, the Guppy species have been released in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Punjab, and Odisha.

The National Biodiversity Authority has labeled these species “invasive and alien” due to their detrimental effects on local aquatic ecosystems, particularly by creating food scarcity for native fish species. The plea also shed light on the international stance against Mosquitofish, noting bans in countries like Australia and New Zealand. An alarming report by the Invasive Species Specialist Group classifies Mosquitofish among the world’s 100 “worst invasive alien species.”

In a hearing conducted by NGT chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava and expert member A Senthil Vel on January 24, the tribunal issued notices to the respondents, which include the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the National Biodiversity Authority, and the National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control, asking for their responses and detailed replies.

The session underscored the urgent need to address the ecological repercussions of deploying such invasive species for mosquito control. The matter is scheduled for further deliberation on May 6, where additional insights and official positions from the concerned entities are anticipated. This case reflects the ongoing conflict between human health strategies and environmental conservation, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices in biological pest control.

Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/assam/story/ngt-seeks-centres-response-on-invasive-fish-species-use-for-mosquito-control-in-assam-other-states-1164670-2025-02-02?utm_source=rssfeed
Category :
Tags:
Publish Date: 2025-02-02 11:56:00