Dead Fish In Lake Maninjau, West Sumatra Increases To 362 Tons

AGAM - The Department of Fisheries and Food Security of Agam Regency, West Sumatra noted that fish deaths in Lake Maninjau increased to 362 tons due to lack of oxygen in the waters of the volcanic lake.

"This is the data we obtained from floating net cage farmers in four nagari or traditional villages," said Head of the Agam Fisheries and Food Security Agency, Rosva Deswira in Lubukbasung, quoted by Antara, Monday, December 13.

Previously, fish deaths were recorded at 350 tons on Sunday, December 12 afternoon. The dead fish were recorded in Nagari Tanjung Sani at 50 tons and Nagari Koto Kaciak at 300 tons.

However, the fish mortality increased by 12 tons, in Nagari Koto Gadang by 10 tons and in Nagari Koto Malintang by two tons on Monday, December 13. The 362 tons of tilapia and goldfish of various sizes, he added, belonged to dozens of farmers.

"The loss due to the death of the fish is around Rp. 7.2 billion with an estimated price of Rp. 20,000 per kilogram," said Rosva.

The mass fish deaths occurred after heavy rains and strong winds hit the area. As a result, there was a reversal of the water mass, resulting in reduced oxygen in the volcanic lake.

After that the fish experienced dizziness. A few hours after that, the fish become dead and float to the surface.

"We urge farmers to collect dead fish carcasses for burial, so that there is no water and air pollution in the area," continued Rosva.

His party appealed to farmers not to sow fish seeds from August to January, because of the high rainfall accompanied by strong winds.

The warning is given every year and even a warning board has been put up. "We convey an appeal every year to minimize fish deaths," said Rosva.