Fisheries Queensland
12-12-2013, 10:16 AM
Queensland Government
Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
12 December 2013
Go native when gifting fish this Christmas
If you are thinking of buying someone a fish for Christmas this year, make sure it is a native species to protect Queensland’s fisheries.
Fisheries Queensland officer Danielle Knutsen said native fish were a great gift choice as they are not only as attractive and interesting as exotic fish, but are also more environmentally friendly.
“Using fish that are native to the local area to decorate ponds or aquariums reduces the risks associated with pest fish escaping or being released into the wild,” Ms Knutsen said.
“Exotic fish that are introduced into our streams and waterways can have disastrous consequences on native fish populations.
"Pet, ornamental and bait fish can all too easily turn into pests when released into our waterways. A few non-native fish can become thousands in the wild and may compete aggressively with native fish for food and space, degrade habitat, and introduce exotic diseases and parasites.”
Ms Knutsen said heavy penalties of up to $220,000 apply to anyone convicted of releasing non-native or noxious fish into Queensland's waterways.
“If you receive an unwanted fish this Christmas, remember that pet fish should never be released into dams and creeks or flushed down the toilet,” Ms Knutsen said.
“Unwanted fish should be disposed by putting them in an ice slurry to humanely kill them.
“Alternatively, you may be able to give them back to the shop where they were purchased from or give them to someone who is interested in taking them.”
For more information on Queensland native fish, visit www.fisheries.qld.gov.au (http://www.fisheries.qld.gov.au/) or call 13 25 23.
Follow Fisheries Queensland on Facebook and Twitter (@FisheriesQld).
Media: Jodana Anglesey, 3087 8601
Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
12 December 2013
Go native when gifting fish this Christmas
If you are thinking of buying someone a fish for Christmas this year, make sure it is a native species to protect Queensland’s fisheries.
Fisheries Queensland officer Danielle Knutsen said native fish were a great gift choice as they are not only as attractive and interesting as exotic fish, but are also more environmentally friendly.
“Using fish that are native to the local area to decorate ponds or aquariums reduces the risks associated with pest fish escaping or being released into the wild,” Ms Knutsen said.
“Exotic fish that are introduced into our streams and waterways can have disastrous consequences on native fish populations.
"Pet, ornamental and bait fish can all too easily turn into pests when released into our waterways. A few non-native fish can become thousands in the wild and may compete aggressively with native fish for food and space, degrade habitat, and introduce exotic diseases and parasites.”
Ms Knutsen said heavy penalties of up to $220,000 apply to anyone convicted of releasing non-native or noxious fish into Queensland's waterways.
“If you receive an unwanted fish this Christmas, remember that pet fish should never be released into dams and creeks or flushed down the toilet,” Ms Knutsen said.
“Unwanted fish should be disposed by putting them in an ice slurry to humanely kill them.
“Alternatively, you may be able to give them back to the shop where they were purchased from or give them to someone who is interested in taking them.”
For more information on Queensland native fish, visit www.fisheries.qld.gov.au (http://www.fisheries.qld.gov.au/) or call 13 25 23.
Follow Fisheries Queensland on Facebook and Twitter (@FisheriesQld).
Media: Jodana Anglesey, 3087 8601