Nigel Boyce, Team Leader Invasive Species and Biosecurity, said help from the public is crucial in keeping pest species out of our rivers and streams.
“We are calling on all recreational and commercial fishers, fish farmers, and ornamental fish enthusiasts to be vigilant while enjoying their time on the water” Nigel said.
“While you're out on the water this summer, please keep an eye out for anything unusual.”
The Central West Local Land Services Regional Strategic Pest Animal Management Plan identifies Mozambique tilapia as a freshwater species to be on the lookout for in the Central West region.
Nigel said people should also be on the lookout for redfin perch.
“Mozambique tilapia and redfin perch are listed as notifiable species under Schedule 1 of the Biosecurity Regulation 2017. It is illegal move, buy or sell, or be in possession of both.
“If Mozambique tilapia are caught through recreational fishing or other means, they must be dispatched immediately and must not be returned to the water.
“Redfin perch are already found in our region and may be immediately released at point of capture, although this is generally discouraged. Redfin must not be used as bait and it’s illegal to possess live redfin perch. We don’t want redfin to disperse any further than it already has.”
Both species are voracious predators of other native species and can destroy recreational fisheries in enclosed waters.
“They are considered a serious pest species and not something we want to see establish in the Central West region, and in the case of tilapia, introduced to Central West waterways.
“We all have a General Biosecurity Duty, including all fishers, fish farmers, and keepers of ornamental fish, to reduce the likelihood of pest fish being bred or released.”
Early detection of aquatic pests is critical, as once a pest species establishes itself in an area, it becomes very difficult, if not impossible, to eradicate.
To help reduce the risk of pest fish or disease establishment, report any sightings of suspected aquatic pests to the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPIRD). Rapid reporting can help minimise the impacts of new pests or diseases.
If you think you've seen a Mozambique talapia, take good quality digital photos or collect a sample of the organism. If it's a fish or invertebrate, place it in a plastic bag and freeze it. Report your suspicion to NSW DPIRD.
Media contact: Cassie Jones | cassie.jones@lls.nsw.gov.au | 0408 504 825
