THREE piranhas were among 102 prohibited ornamental fishes seized by the Selangor Fisheries Department (DOF) from an aquarium in Klang on Wednesday (Aug 6).
The estimated value of the seized fish is RM18,000, state DOF director Noraisyah Abu Bakar said, adding that the raid followed a public tip-off.
"Inspections revealed the premises owner was selling, keeping, storing and displaying species of live fish that were in violation of the Fisheries Regulations (Prohibition Species etc., for Fish) (Amendment 2024).
“There are still stubborn operators selling and displaying prohibited ornamental fish species, despite various announcements and warnings being issued,” she said in a statement.
Besides the piranha, the seized fish species included Flowerhorn, Amazon redtail catfish, Alligator Gar, Silver Dollar, Tiger Shovelnose Catfish and Leopard Catfish.
“Possession of prohibited fish species without valid approval is subject to legal action.
“Violations and non-compliance with existing regulations will be dealt with firmly,” Noraisyah added.
She stressed that non-compliance with these regulations was a serious matter as the listed species are known to disrupt the aquatic ecosystem and dominate river waters in the state.
