Chetumal, Q.R. — The Biodiversity and Natural Protected Areas Institute of the State of Quintana Roo (Ibanqroo) held a meeting regarding the invasion of the devilfish. Ibanqroo General Director Javier Carballar Osorio reported that during the meeting, the state’s rationale for addressing the issue was presented, as well as the progress of the actions and activities implemented.
According to Carballar Osorio, informational talks and information on the presence of the devilfish have been given to approximately 600 people from government organizations, academic institutions, civil society organizations and others.
He said the work program for addressing the invasion of the devilfish in the short and medium term was presented, defining four lines of action: Coordination and collaboration, detection and control, monitoring and research and communication and environmental education.
Subsequently, with the support of the private sector, informational banners on the presence and reporting of the devilfish were delivered to the municipalities of Bacalar, Othón P. Blanco and Felipe Carrillo Puerto.
The devil fish or plecos (Pterygoplichthys spp.) is a species native to South America, however, its presence in the bodies of water in the south of the state represents a problem for the aquatic ecosystems of the area, he said.
