US EditionAmazon sailfin catfish found in Sindh waters, experts warn of invasive spread
The Amazon sailfin catfish, one of 26 invasive species in Pakistan, threatens aquatic biodiversity and fisheries economy due to aquarium trade and weak regulation, WWF-Pakistan said.
- WWF-Pakistan warned that the Amazon sailfin catfish has been found in Sindh and Lower Punjab, threatening biodiversity and fisheries with its non-native, armoured body from Latin America.
- Weak regulation and handling in the aquarium trade allowed species like sailfin catfish, guppies and mollies to enter ecosystems, while 1960s and 1980s aquaculture programs introduced multiple exotic fish.
- Invasive fish commonly outcompete and prey on native fish fauna, spread diseases, and alter habitats, driving biodiversity loss and economic harm, while prolific tilapia breeding drastically cut fish production in Manchar Lake and Keejhar Lake, impacting fishermen and local fishing communities.
- WWF-Pakistan warned eradication is effectively impossible for this invader, saying the sailfin catfish is among 26 invasive fish species introduced into Pakistan's natural water bodies.
- Historical introductions dating back to 1928 illustrate lasting harm from exotic species, threatening native aquatic ecosystems of Pakistan and the fisheries economy through extinctions, altered habitats, and reduced catches.
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Geo News
Invasive 'alien' fish spreading in Pakistani waters, threatening biodiversity
WWF-Pakistan has warned that an invasive fish species has been spotted in the waters of Sindh and Lower Punjab, posing a threat to biodiversity and the fisheries economy.In a statement, the environmental organisation said that...
Invasive Amazon sailfin catfish discovered in Sindh waters
An unusual fish brought from a dhund, or shallow pond, near Sukkur to the Karachi Fish Harbour on January 4, 2026, has been identified as an Amazon sailfin catfish, officials and experts said. The foreign species, which is not native to Pakistan, is believed to have accidentally entered natural water bodies and has now spread across Sindh and parts of lower Punjab. The fish initially went unidentified and was described by handlers as an alien sp…
Invasive ‘alien' Fish Spreading In Pakistani Waters, Threatening Biodiversity
WWF-Pakistan has warned that an invasive fish species has been spotted in the waters of Sindh and Lower Punjab, posing a threat to biodiversity and the fisheries economy. In a statement, the environmental organisation said that on January 4 an unusual fish was brought to Karachi Fish Harbour from a dhand near Sukkur, which was termed an “alien”, as no one was able to identify it. It was an Amazon sailfin catfish. This fish, it said, which has a …
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