Tackling serious lagoon threat
A POPULATION of pest fish in Mullers Lagoon near Bowen is being targeted by Whitsunday Regional Council in a bid to remove the threat from local waterways.
The tilapia is a noxious species that displaces and preys on native fish, as well as spreading disease.
The presence of tilapia in Mullers Lagoon means pest fish management practices need to be undertaken to restore the lagoon to a healthy natural habitat.
Mayor Andrew Willcox said council staff would take action to remove the pest fish by draining the lagoon during a suitable dry season, safely relocating the native fish beforehand.
"This action will ensure all fish and eggs are removed from the lagoon and reduces the risk of reintroducing tilapia into the waterway,” he said.
Tilapia were introduced into Australia in the 1970s as ornamental fish and are now regarded as one of the greatest threats to Australia's native biodiversity.
Females carry juveniles and eggs in their mouths and these can survive even after the adult dies.
Therefore, new incursions can occur when live or dead tilapia are released into a waterway
"The council will work with the relevant government authorities to develop a pest management plan and we will keep the community updated as the project progresses,” CrWillcox said.
