NGT Issues Notice to Centre on Use of Invasive Fish Species for Mosquito Control

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has sought a response from the Centre regarding the use of two highly-invasive and alien fish species for mosquito control.

• The tribunal was hearing a plea regarding the release of Gambusia Affinis (Mosquitofish) and Poecilia Reticulata (Guppy) in water bodies across various states.

About Gambusia Affinis (Western Mosquitofish)

• Common Name : Mosquitofish.
• Purpose : Used as a biological agent to control mosquito larvae.
• Native Range: Mississippi River basin from Central Indiana and  Illinois to the Gulf of Mexico .
• Mosquito Control: A single adult fish consumes 100 to 300 mosquito larvae per day.
• Characteristics: 
  • Habitat: Found in freshwater; tolerates brackish water and high salinities.
  • Adaptability : Survives in low oxygen levels.
  • Reproduction : Breeds throughout summer and are  Viviparous , that is they give birth to live young instead of laying eggs.
  • Invasiveness: Listed among the 100 worst invasive alien species by IUCN.
  • Historical Use in India: Introduced in 1928 during British rule for mosquito control.
  • IUCN Status: Least Concern.

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About Poecilia Reticulata Common names: Guppy, Millionfish or Rainbow Fish

• Range: Native to Northern South America and Caribbean islands.
• Habitat: Found in shallow edges of pools and streams.
• Usage: Also used for mosquito larvae control.
• IUCN Status: Least Concern.

States Involved in Fish Release

• Mosquitofish was released in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, Punjab, and Andhra Pradesh.

• Guppy was released in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Punjab, and Odisha.
• Concern: Their widespread distribution  poses risks to local biodiversity.

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Ecological Impact

• Threat to Native Fish : Competes for food and habitat, causing food scarcity for indigenous fish.
• Biodiversity Loss : Can lead to a decline or extinction of native species.
• Ecosystem Disruption: Alterations in food chains affect entire aquatic ecosystems.

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