Pramono Reveals Sailfin Molly Population in Jakarta Exceeds 60%

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has revealed the population of sailfin molly fish in Jakarta’s waterways. Pramono stated that the number of these invasive fish has exceeded more than 60 percent.

“From the analysis results, it is estimated that over 60 percent of the fish in Jakarta are now sailfin molly,” said Pramono during an inspection of sailfin molly capture operations in Kelapa Gading, North Jakarta, on Friday (17/4/2026).

Pramono explained that the dominance of sailfin molly poses a serious threat to the aquatic ecosystem. This invasive species preys on the eggs of other fish, making it difficult for local species to survive.

“This fish is highly invasive and causes other fish, especially endemic local ones, to almost all be unable to survive because their eggs are eaten,” he stated.

Furthermore, sailfin molly is considered dangerous for consumption. Pramono noted that the residue content in their bodies is relatively high.

“On average, the residue level is already above 0.3. That is very dangerous if consumed,” he emphasised.

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has begun taking action by conducting simultaneous captures of sailfin molly across five city districts. This activity aims to reduce the population, which is deemed overly dominant.

In addition, Pramono assured that these efforts will be carried out continuously. He even plans to assign Public Works Infrastructure and Facilities Handling Officers (PPSU/PJLP) specifically to address the issue.

“Specifically, we will assign PJLP to reduce the dominance of sailfin molly,” he said.

According to him, massive steps are necessary because sailfin molly reproduces very quickly. In a single spawning, the number can reach hundreds to thousands.

“It spawns very quickly, up to hundreds to thousands. This is a major challenge for the DKI Provincial Government,” he added.