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Perspective: Finding economically beneficial ways to use invasive Pterygoplichthys

Posted: 16 Nov 2024, 21:06
by bekateen
Wan Ismail, W.A., Ramli, N.A. and Baharuddin, H. (2024). Transforming the invasive suckermouth catfish into a goldmine of opportunity. Epitome of Nature (EON), 12: 33-35.

https://ir.uitm.edu.my/id/eprint/104442/
PDF: https://ir.uitm.edu.my/id/eprint/104442/1/104442.pdf
The invasive suckermouth catfish ( spp.), commonly known as the pleco, janitor fish, or ikan bandaraya is a species native to South America but has become widespread in various water bodies across the globe, including Malaysia. The invasion of suckermouth catfish in Malaysia has caused significant ecological and economic impacts.
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These non-native fish have established themselves in various freshwater ecosystems, outcompeting native species for food and habitat. Their burrowing behaviour destabilises riverbanks, leading to increased sedimentation and erosion, which negatively affects water quality and the health of aquatic habitats.
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Various products can be derived from suckermouth catfish, each offering unique economic opportunities.

Re: Perspective: Finding economically beneficial ways to use invasive Pterygoplichthys

Posted: 17 Nov 2024, 07:51
by Jools
I do like the idea of pleco satay and enjoyed seeing the picture of it. However, the paper talks about sustainability and I would have thought the aim of utilising invasive species in these ways would be to make money while eradicating them.

Eradication of your source material is not a good business case. Riverside "Pop up" pleco satay kiosks do seem like a superb idea.

Cheers,

Jools

Re: Perspective: Finding economically beneficial ways to use invasive Pterygoplichthys

Posted: 17 Nov 2024, 13:16
by Shane
Saw a news story recently about plecos in Mexico. They are using them to make cat and dog food.
-Shane