A second red-bellied piranha was claimed to be found in Pahang’s Sungai Klau on September 19, 2026, but officials remain uncertain about its identity and whether the species has established a population in the area.
The Malaysian angling group Jejak Air Tawar reported catching a second red-bellied piranha (Pygocentrus nattereri) beneath the RTP bridge in Sungai Klau, raising concerns about potential releases of non-native species into local waterways. However, the Fisheries Department has yet to confirm the fish’s identity, citing the need for DNA analysis and further examination of physical characteristics.
Uncertainty Over Identity and Origin
The discovery of a second specimen has fueled speculation about how the fish arrived in Sungai Klau. The Fisheries Department director-general, Datuk Adnan Hussain, noted that while the fish’s morphology appeared similar to a red-bellied piranha, there are many other characteristics we need to identify, including its morphology, scales and teeth.
He emphasized that a short video alone could not confirm the species, adding, Therefore, we cannot confirm whether it is actually a piranha or a pacu.
The red-bellied pacu (Piaractus brachypomus), an Amazon native like the piranha, is often mistaken for the predatory species in its juvenile stage. Unlike piranhas, which are freshwater predators, pacus are omnivores with a preference that far outgrows the piranha. Adnan warned that the presence of non-native fish could disrupt local ecosystems, urging anglers to preserve and report any suspicious catches.
Calls for Vigilance and Reporting
Jejak Air Tawar’s Facebook post urged fishermen to document sightings by taking photographs and videos, then freezing the specimen for collection. Please make sure to take clear photographs and videos and keep the specimen frozen. The specimen can then be collected for reference and further study,
the group stated. This follows the first reported catch on August 26, when a fish said to be a piranha was caught by a fisherman at the dam.
Social Media Reactions and Public Concern
Public discourse on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) mixed curiosity with alarm. One netizen compared the situation to foreign footballers who were imported to enrich the national team, implying a misplaced focus on exotic species over native biodiversity.
Despite the social media activity, authorities have found no evidence of an established piranha population. Adnan reiterated that authorities have said there is currently no evidence of an established piranha population at Empangan Klau, though he acknowledged the risk of invasive species. The Department of Fisheries plans to explore DNA and environmental DNA analysis with Aquaria KLCC to resolve the uncertainty.
Ecosystem Risks and Regulatory Measures
Red-bellied piranhas are freshwater predators that could compete with native species for food, potentially disrupting local ecosystems. Adnan warned that even permitted foreign live fish brought into Malaysia must be accompanied by a health certificate to ensure they are free of diseases that could threaten the aquatic ecosystem. We will continue inspections at ornamental fish premises nationwide and take action where necessary to ensure our ecosystem remains protected from invasive fish species,
he said.
As the investigation continues, the Fisheries Department has urged continued public cooperation. With no confirmed breeding or population growth, the situation remains in a state of limbo—uncertain but not yet critical. However, the case underscores the challenges of managing invasive species and the risks of unregulated pet trade.