Government Studies Tinfoil Barb Impact on Laguna Lake

The government is monitoring the potentially disruptive presence of the freshwater fish tinfoil barb in Laguna de Bay, evaluating its ecological and socio-economic harm to native fish.

The tinfoil barb, which inhabits Southeast Asia but not the Philippines, is commonly kept as an aquarium pet. It is a fast-growing omnivorous species that feeds on both plant and animal substances. It can rapidly outcompete native fish for food and breeding grounds.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) said it is 'closely coordinating with concerned local government units (LGUs) and the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA).' The LLDA is the primary agency responsible for the sustainable development, conservation and protection of Laguna de Bay and its surrounding areas. It acts as a quasi-government bureau with regulatory and developmental functions related to the lake and its watershed.

Active collaboration leads to a unified and science-based approach in monitoring, mitigation, and response measures. 'All agencies are working together to ensure that interventions remain responsive to the welfare of affected communities,' the DA-BFAR said.

Biologists from the Ateneo de Manila University, who have identified the tinfoil barb lurking in Laguna de Bay, warned that its unchecked spread could lead to ecological disruptions and irreversible changes to aquatic food webs. The scientists said there have also been sightings of the fish in nearby rivers, such as in Pagsanjan, Laguna.

The tinfoil barb could further stress the already degraded ecosystem of Laguna de Bay, which supports millions of Filipinos through fish, water supply, and flood regulation, the scientists pointed out.

If monitoring and evaluation efforts confirm a threat to ecological balance or displacement of native fish species, the DA-BFAR said it is ready to activate interventions through established programs addressing invasive species found within the lake.

According to the source: The Manila Times.