DA-BFAR responds to tinfoil barb invasion in Laguna de Bay

Biologists from Ateneo de Manila University confirmed on Tuesday that tinfoil barb, a pet fish native to Southeast Asia but not the Philippines, has been found in Laguna de Bay.

The Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) is actively responding by preparing a 'science-based' plan to address the invasive species, which poses threats to native fish populations.

Researchers warn that if left unchecked, the tinfoil barb could lead to biodiversity loss and irreversible changes similar to those caused by other invasive species like tilapia.

DA-BFAR has been monitoring the non-native fish's presence since 12:46 pm on Wednesday and is now working closely with local government units and the Laguna Lake Development Authority to manage and monitor its population.

The bureau is currently preparing an estimate of the tinfoil barb population, evaluating its potential ecological and socio-economic impacts, and implementing immediate mitigation strategies as part of a unified approach in addressing this issue.