In the world of environmental mysteries, the sudden appearance of hundreds of dead fish in waterways can stir public curiosity and concern.
Recently, Kota Kinabalu witnessed such an occurrence, leading to widespread speculation about its cause.
Could it be true that fishmongers are behind this aquatic enigma?
VERDICT:
TRUE
Sabah Fisheries Department director Azhar Kasim said investigations revealed that the dead fish found in the former Sembulan and Karamunsing monsoon drains were marine species and are believed to have been discarded by fishmongers operating at nearby markets.
"The investigation indicated that the dead fish were of the tamban species, Sardinella sp. However, further analysis of the fish samples could not be carried out due to their advanced state of decomposition," said Azhar.
This comes after speculation went viral on social media about the dead fish in the Sembulan and Karamunsing monsoon drains, with some attributing the incident to toxic pollution.
On the dead fish, Azhar said that it is likely the fishmongers disposed of the rotting tamban fish into the sea, but the fish were later carried into the rivers and monsoon drains by high tide.
On Jan 10, the department’s Biosecurity and Fish Health Management units collected water samples and dead fish for further analysis.
"Observations during the inspection showed dead fish still floating in the drains. Several samples were taken to identify the species. Interestingly, numerous tilapia fish were observed alive and swimming in the same monsoon drain," Azhar said.
He then said that tilapia is a freshwater species commonly found in rivers, lakes, and ponds and can also survive in brackish water due to its adaptability to various water conditions.
"We concluded that the fish deaths were not due to disease or water quality issues, as no other fish species were found dead.
The presence of tamban fish in the monsoon drain was unusual, as this species is typically found in marine waters at depths of 15 to 100 metres. The only plausible explanation is that they were washed into the area by high tide," he explained.
