Guwahati: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Centre to respond to concerns raised about the use of two alien fish species, Gambusia Affinis (Mosquitofish) and Poecilia Reticulata (Guppy), being released into water bodies as biological agents for controlling mosquito populations in various states, including Assam.
The Tribunal was hearing a petition highlighting the environmental risks posed by these species.
The plea brought attention to the widespread use of Mosquitofish and Guppy in several states such as Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and others, aimed at tackling mosquito-borne diseases.
However, these species have been flagged as “invasive and alien” by the National Biodiversity Authority, which warns that their release into local water bodies has the potential to disrupt aquatic ecosystems by outcompeting native fish species for food and habitat.
The plea also referenced the international concern over the invasive nature of Mosquitofish, with countries like Australia and New Zealand banning their use due to the detrimental effects on biodiversity.
A report from the Invasive Species Specialist Group categorizes Mosquitofish among the world’s 100 worst invasive alien species.
In its order, the NGT bench, comprising Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava and Expert Member A Senthil Vel, issued a notice to the respondents, including the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the National Biodiversity Authority, and the National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control.
The Tribunal has scheduled further hearings on the matter for May 6, 2025.
Read More: Manipur Security Forces Arrest Two Militants in Separate Operations