The arrival of the Amazon sailfin catfish in Pakistan’s waterways has sparked concern among experts, who warn that the invasive species poses a significant threat to local aquatic life and the fishing economy. According to WWF Pakistan, the catfish was recently spotted at Karachi Fish Harbor, with another specimen recovered from a reservoir near Sukkur. Native to Latin America, the species has unintentionally entered Pakistan’s water bodies and is spreading rapidly across Sindh and southern Punjab.
The Amazon sailfin catfish is characterized by its thick, strong body and armored skin covered with bony plates. It competes aggressively with native fish for food and habitat, preys on smaller fish, spreads diseases, and disrupts the balance of aquatic ecosystems. WWF officials note that it is among 26 non-native fish species that have become invasive in Pakistan over the past three decades, displacing native fish, reducing biodiversity, and causing economic challenges for local fishermen.
Past invasions by species like tilapia in lakes such as Manchar and Keenjhar have already led to significant declines in fish production, a trend experts fear will worsen with the spread of the sailfin catfish. WWF Pakistan has also confirmed the presence of the Red-Bellied Pacu in the Chenab River and the Kandhkot area, highlighting that once invasive species establish themselves, controlling or removing them becomes extremely difficult. Experts stress the urgent need for monitoring and management to protect Pakistan’s aquatic ecosystems and safeguard the livelihoods of fishermen dependent on native fish populations.
