14.10.2026 22:52
In Indonesia, plecos bred to clean aquariums became a major problem when released into rivers. Authorities, taking action against invasive fish that reproduce rapidly and threaten native species, aim to remove at least 10 tons of plecos from the river.
Plecos released from aquariums into the wild in Jakarta, Indonesia's capital, have turned into an infestation that is difficult to control. The South American fish, due to the scarcity of natural enemies and suitable living conditions, have rapidly multiplied and begun threatening the ecological balance in the river. Authorities launched a large-scale effort to find a solution to the problem.
THEY WERE KEPT TO CLEAN THE AQUARIUMS
These fish, known for their armored bodies and sucker-shaped mouths, are preferred because they eat the algae that forms on aquarium glass.
However, the plecos released into the wild by their owners spread to the Ciliwung River in Jakarta. The rapidly multiplying fish began to threaten natural life by competing with native species for food and habitat.
NOW THEY WILL REMOVE 10 TONS OF THEM FROM THE RIVER
Following the increase in the number of invasive fish, the Jakarta administration took action. As part of the launched effort, the goal is to remove at least 10 tons of aquarium plecos from the Ciliwung River. Authorities aim with this intervention to limit the spread of the invasive species and protect natural life in the river.
THEY ALSO DAMAGE THE RIVERBANKS
Invasive plecos not only threaten native fish. The burrows they dig in the riverbanks can also cause deterioration of the bank structure. Experts warn fish owners that these creatures, which appear harmless in aquariums, can cause serious environmental problems when released outside their natural habitats.