‘They ate the shrimp, they even ate the crab’: Thai fishers count the cost of a voracious invader

Thai fishers are facing significant challenges due to the invasive blackchin tilapia, a species originally from west Africa that is disrupting Thailand's river ecosystems. These fish are outcompeting native species, leading to dwindling catches and economic hardship for local fishermen. Some chefs, like those at Kor-Tae seafood restaurant, are exploring the use of blackchin tilapia despite public hesitation, indicating a potential shift in culinary practices. This ecological imbalance highlights broader issues of invasive species and the urgent need for sustainable management strategies.