Disputed Origins
A lawsuit has been filed against agribusiness giant Charoen Pokphand Foods Plc, alleging the company introduced the fish for research.
The company denies the claims, stating its facilities followed strict protocols. It points to independent research suggesting a single introduction event.
Future Concerns
The fish's courtship behavior, digging pits in sand, increases sedimentation and threatens benthic invertebrates and underwater plants.
Local markets struggle to sell the fish due to unfamiliarity and its unappealing appearance. Trader Tongta Samtia notes, "They don't know how to eat it."
Fisher Thanandon Charoenhiransaku highlights the scale: "When you cast the net three times, you can easily get 20 to 30kg of blackchin tilapia."
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He fears the species could cross national borders if not controlled, calling it "a silent threat."
