Catfish Biocontrol Research in Te Arawa Lakes
He pānui nā Te Arawa Lakes Trust,
“We would like to let you know that we are investigating the use of alternative methods to control catfish in Lake Rotoiti and Lake Rotorua. This is so we can protect and care for our taonga species and the health of our lakes.
Catfish were first discovered in Lake Rotoiti in March 2016 then in Lake Rotorua two and a half years later. Despite massive netting efforts by our contractors and volunteers, the catfish population is now an estimated 186,000 in Lake Rotoiti (as of March 2020).
We know that catfish are devastating our kōura populations. We also know that catfish eradication is not feasible with the current tools available. For this reason, we are working with the Bay of Plenty Regional Council and NIWA on a research project to assess whether biocontrol, using sterile male catfish, would be an effective tool for Lake Rotoiti and Lake Rotorua.
These are catfish which are unable to successfully breed with other catfish. As a result, they disrupt the breeding success rate of wild catfish.
Over the next 12 months, we will be facilitating engagement hui to listen to your concerns and thoughts about this research project. We will also be:
• Identifying mātauranga māori-based research projects to both support the research requirements while also supporting post-graduate students of Te Arawa descent.
• Working with:
Ministry for Primary Industries and Department of Conservation to understand their respective permitting processes.
Fish and Game New Zealand regarding a potential site for a fish hatchery.
NIWA regarding research requirements e.g. catfish population dynamics.
We will be discussing this kaupapa at an engagement hui in September 2020. In the meantime, if you require any further information or clarification, please contact William Anaru on william@tearawa.iwi.nz or visit our website www.tearawa.iwi.nz
We look forward to your feedback to ensure that we can engage in this programme together for the protection and care of our waters.
Ngā mihi mahana,
Karen Vercoe
CEO - Te Arawa Lakes Trust