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NGT Seeks Centre’s Response on Invasive Fish Species

  • 04 Feb 2025

In February 2025, the National Green Tribunal has asked the Centre to respond regarding the use of Gambusia Affinis and Poecilia Reticulata as biological agents for controlling mosquitoes.

  • The plea concerns the release of Gambusia Affinis (Mosquitofish) and Poecilia Reticulata (Guppy) in water bodies across various states to control mosquito populations.
  • The National Biodiversity Authority has classified both species as "invasive and alien" due to their negative impact on local aquatic ecosystems and the food sources of indigenous fish species.
  • The tribunal highlighted those countries like Australia and New Zealand have banned the Mosquitofish due to its harmful effects on native ecosystems.
  • The Invasive Species Specialist Group’s report listed Mosquitofish among the 100 worst invasive alien species globally, further supporting concerns over its use.
  • The NGT’s inquiry into this issue aims to address potential ecological risks posed by these non-native fish species.