
Awareness Workshop on Invasive Fish Species Management in Goa
ICAR–Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-CCARI), Goa, organized Awareness Workshop on “Invasive Fish Species Management in Goa” in association with the Government College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Quepem, Goa, on 21 July 2026. The programme was conducted under the Goa State Research Foundation (GSRF)-funded IRIS-LD research project on invasive fish species management in Goa. The workshop aimed to enhance awareness among students about ecosystem services of fish, disservices, invasive fish species, their ecological impacts, and the importance of conserving the indigenous freshwater fish diversity of Goa. A total of 33 students (5 male and 28 female) participated in the programme. Dr. Sreekanth GB, Senior Scientist (Fisheries Resource Management), ICAR-CCARI, Goa, delivered a session highlighting the status, pathways of introduction, ecological impacts, and management strategies for invasive fish species in Goa. He emphasized the importance of public awareness, early detection, and stakeholder participation in safeguarding the state's freshwater ecosystems.As part of the practical session, participants were introduced to live specimens of major invasive fish species reported from Goa, including Pangasius (Pangasionodonhypophthalmus), African catfish (Clariasgariepinus), Nile tilapia (Oreochromisniloticus), and exotic ornamental fishes. A display of common indigenous freshwater fish species was also arranged to facilitate comparison and improve species identification skills. The live demonstration provided valuable insights into the distinguishing features of invasive fishes and their potential threats to native aquatic biodiversity.The participants appreciated the initiative and expressed their willingness to support conservation efforts and promote awareness on invasive fish species management in Goa. The programme was coordinated by Dr. Sreekanth G. B., Shri Trivesh Mayekar, Mrs. Sheena Paul, Ms. Rita Sharma, and Mr. Mrudul Pendurkar.