PHNOM PENH: The Fisheries Administration has advised the public against releasing non-native fish and other aquatic animals into nature to avoid risking local wildlife populations.

According to the announcement of the Ministry of Agriculture, some species of aquatic animals or fish of foreign origin that are carnivorous or fast-breeding can threaten the habitat of native wildlife and their breeding cycles.

Therefore, the Fisheries Administration called on people who are raising non-native fish or aquatic animals to avoid releasing them into natural waterways.

Those looking to release non-native species should contact the relevant authorities at 012 908 121, 099 791 919, or 012 911 411.

The Fisheries Administration said it appreciates people, especially fishermen, who have participated in the catch and release of rare native species such as catfish, barb fish, royal turtles, sea turtles, and dolphins. Cambodia’s native species require the effort of everyone to preserve and protect them.

The Administration encouraged people to continue to provide information to the fisheries authorities and to release rare species to help revive Cambodia’s biodiversity for future generations.