Jakarta Rivers Full of Plecostomus Fish, Left as a Hazard, Eating Them Also Dangerous

JAKARTA - Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung stated that plecostomus fish dominate up to 60% of the rivers in the capital. He made this remark while directly inspecting the capture of plecostomus fish in Jalan Janur Elok VI Blok QD9, Kelapa Gading, North Jakarta, on Friday (17/4/2026). “Plecostomus fish now dominate the waters in Jakarta. Based on the assessment from the DKI Jakarta Marine Affairs and Fisheries Office, it is estimated that more than 60% of the fish in Jakarta are plecostomus, and they are probably present in other regions as well,” Pramono said on Friday. These fish eat the eggs of other fish, particularly endemic species, making it difficult for local fish populations to survive. “This fish is highly invasive and causes other fish in the area, especially local endemic ones, to struggle to survive because their eggs are eaten,” he explained. Furthermore, Pramono revealed the presence of harmful residues in the bodies of plecostomus fish. According to a report from the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP), the average residue level in these fish exceeds 0.3, which is considered risky to health if consumed. “If consumed, it would be dangerous, and if left alone, it will cause damage because it constantly gnaws on walls and such to build its home,” Pramono stated. The plecostomus fish capture initiative is being carried out simultaneously in five administrative cities of Jakarta: North Jakarta, South Jakarta, East Jakarta, West Jakarta, and Central Jakarta. Additionally, Pramono will assign specialised Individual Other Service Providers (PJLP) to handle the plecostomus fish problem in Jakarta. “There will be a special assignment for PJLP to deal with these plecostomus fish,” Pramono said.