The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) under the Department of Agriculture (DA) has mobilized a coordinated response to the growing presence of an alien fish species in Laguna de Bay, which has significant ecological and policy implications.
BFAR confirmed on Wednesday that technical teams have been deployed to monitor and manage the species, first documented in the lake in 2021. While tinfoil barb species is popular in the aquarium trade, it poses a threat to local biodiversity due to its invasive potential and broad diet.
The agency emphasized that it is closely working with the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) and local government units to assess the species’ population, ecological impact, and possible sources of introduction. BFAR assured the public that immediate mitigation strategies are in place, and further targeted interventions will be activated if native species are found to be at risk.
“This collaboration ensures a unified and science-based approach in monitoring, mitigation, and response measures,” BFAR said.
A recent study by researchers from Ateneo de Manila University warned of possible biodiversity loss and permanent disruption of aquatic food webs if the invasion is not controlled.
The DA reiterated its commitment to restoring Laguna de Bay as a critical freshwater fish source, noting it once produced up to 90,000 tons of fish annually and supported around 13,000 fishermen. However, ongoing threats such as pollution and invasive species continue to challenge the lake’s viability.
