Raub: The Department of Fisheries (DOF) announced that there is currently no evidence of an established or breeding piranha population in the Klau Dam, Raub. This statement follows the capture of a fish suspected to belong to the piranha species on August 26.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fisheries director-general Datuk Adnan Hussain reported that only one fish of the suspected species has been caught in the area. Investigations and field monitoring by the Pahang Fisheries Department, conducted up to September 15, have not revealed any additional catches or related safety incidents.

Datuk Adnan Hussain stated that the Fisheries Research Institute (FRI) in Glami Lemi, Negeri Sembilan, conducted a technical assessment of photographs and video recordings of the fish. The observable morphological characteristics matched those of the genus Pygocentrus, commonly known as the piranha group. However, a definitive confirmation at the species level could not be achieved since the physical specimen was unavailable for further examination. The fish reportedly died and was disposed of by the individual who caught it before the investigation commenced.

Social media platforms have been rife with claims of piranhas in the Klau Dam, including allegations that a piranha had eaten a crocodile. These posts have raised public concern about the potential presence of this alien species in the waters.

Adnan urged the public not to panic and assured that the DOF would maintain regular monitoring of the Klau Dam and its surrounding areas. The department aims to identify any new developments and enhance public awareness regarding the risks of releasing alien or invasive fish species into public waters.

He emphasized that releasing alien fish species into public waters is irresponsible, as it can negatively impact inland aquatic ecosystems, local fish populations, and aquatic biodiversity. Adnan advised that if a fish suspected to be an alien species is caught, it should not be released back into the water. Instead, individuals should keep the specimen if it is in suitable condition and promptly contact the nearest fisheries office for further examination and analysis, including DNA testing if necessary.

The public is encouraged to seek information from official DOF sources and refrain from spreading unverified information to avoid confusion and speculation.