DKI Provincial Government Aggressively Eradicates Sailfin Catfish, DPRD Highlights Overlooked Main Problem

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government is currently intensifying efforts to catch sailfin catfish in several rivers. However, the DKI DPRD reminds that the main problem is not just the fish, but the polluted condition of the rivers. Member of Commission C of the DKI DPRD, Hardiyanto Kenneth, stated that the abundance of sailfin catfish is actually an indicator that water quality in Jakarta is poor. He explained that sailfin catfish or Hypostomus plecostomus is a type of fish capable of living in dirty water. Therefore, if their numbers are high, the river conditions are likely polluted. As a result, local fish such as wader and gabus are threatened because their eggs are eaten. In addition, sailfin catfish also have the potential to damage riverbanks. They dig holes for breeding, which can cause erosion leading to landslides on river edges and exacerbate flood risks. From a health perspective, this fish is also dangerous if consumed. This is because sailfin catfish can absorb heavy metals such as mercury and lead from polluted water. “This is important for the public to know. Do not let sailfin catfish be utilised without studies, as it can have adverse health impacts,” he said.