Bangkok: Suriya Jungrungreangkit, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, has highlighted the importance of using research to develop long-term strategies to combat the black-chinned tilapia problem. He stressed the ongoing efforts to address this issue through integrated cooperation across all sectors, coordinating with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation to leverage research in supporting management practices and improving disease control effectiveness.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Suriya stated that tackling the black-chinned tilapia problem is a key mission for the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives. The ministry is advancing with integrated collaboration among all relevant agencies to manage the spread of the disease, mitigate its impact on the ecosystem, and alleviate the challenges faced by farmers.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives has laid out three key operational measures: controlling and eradicating the black-chinned tilapia population to reduce outbreaks and their impact on native aquatic animals and ecosystems; restoring ecosystems and providing relief to affected farmers while continuously monitoring and evaluating the situation in the area; and promoting economic utilization, such as processing into animal feed and fishmeal, to decrease the population of black-chinned tilapia in natural water sources and increase their value.
Additionally, the Ministry is collaborating with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation to use scientific knowledge, technology, and research in managing the black-chinned tilapia and other invasive aquatic species. This collaboration aims to develop systematic measures for control, prevention, and ecosystem restoration.
Mr. Suriya affirmed that the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives will persist in integrating cooperation with all sectors to ensure the black-chinned tilapia problem is resolved effectively, while protecting the ecosystem, preserving biodiversity, and sustainably reducing the impact on farmers' livelihoods and income.