A total of 64 fish species in Bangladesh are threatened with extinction, says the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) which in 2015 updated the Red List of Threatened Animals of the country. The study also showed that 25.3 percent of local fish species are threatened while nine species are on the verge of extinction. Overexploitation of fish resources, use of illegal gear, water pollution, increasing flash flood and siltation, unplanned construction on riverbanks, deforestation, fishing by complete dewatering, destruction of swamp forests are among the key reasons behind this dismal picture.
The Department of Fisheries (DoF) yearbooks show how some fish species are making up the major share of overall fish production while other local varieties are getting depleted. According to the 2019 Yearbook, major carps (Rui, Katla and Mrigal) account for 19.97 percent of the total fish production while Hilsa contributes to 12.15pc, exotic carps (Silver Carp and Grass Carp) 10.87pc, Pangas 10.45pc and Tilapia 8.91pc. Consumers lament the unavailability of many local species of fish which in the past used to flood kitchen markets.
Experts have suggested a number of measures, including the building of permanent sanctuaries in every river and beel and other water bodies, prevention of river pollution and taking up of waterbody dredging projects to reverse the current trend of extinction of local fish species. Building permanent sanctuaries at every river and beel will help fish species breed safely. All rivers must be protected from pollution and mother fishes protected at any cost. Besides, controlled breeding of all declining species across the country is crucial.
Experience shows where there is a sanctuary, the production of declining varieties has increased. So there must be sanctuaries at every possible fish breeding area by targeting specific fish species of the area concerned. Relevant government authorities are working to reverse the declining trend of fish species. However if the existing laws are enforced for all fish species like in the case of Hilsa, it would be the best way of conserving our fish resources. We want to say the administration should take effective measures to protect different fish species also for ensuring food security.
