Photos: Sri Lankan villagers adapt to snakehead fish invasion

Al Jazeera
Al Jazeera
21h ago 4 views
In Sri Lanka, an invasive snakehead fish threatens local fisheries, but fishermen are finding ways to turn this challenge into opportunity.
Photos: Sri Lankan villagers adapt to snakehead fish invasion
A What happened
In the Deduru Oya reservoir of Walpaluwa, Sri Lanka, fishermen are confronting the challenges posed by an invasive snakehead fish species. This fish, which has no natural predators in the area, is rapidly depleting local fish populations. Fishermen have reported a significant decline in traditional catches, while snakehead fish have proliferated since their introduction, likely from released ornamental fish. Despite unsuccessful attempts to control their population through angler competitions, local fishers are adapting by promoting angler tourism and processing snakehead fish into dried products. This shift not only provides alternative income but also helps manage the invasive species. Fishermen like Sujeewa Kariyawasam are capitalizing on the growing demand for dried snakehead, which is gaining popularity despite the fresh fish's limited market appeal.

Key insights

  • 1

    Invasive Species Impact

    The snakehead fish threatens local ecosystems and traditional fishing livelihoods.

  • 2

    Adaptation Strategies

    Fishermen are exploring tourism and product development to cope with the invasion.

  • 3

    Economic Opportunities

    Processing snakehead fish into dried products offers new income streams.

Takeaways

While the invasive snakehead fish poses significant challenges to local fisheries in Sri Lanka, fishermen are finding innovative ways to adapt and create new economic opportunities.

Topics

Food Economy Sustainability