Italy allocates funds to catch giant catfish

The authorities of the Italian region of Veneto have allocated 100,000 euros for a program to combat invasive European catfish in Lake Garda. The predator, reaching over two meters in length and weighing more than 500 kilograms, threatens local fish fauna and damages the fishing industry. Fishing enterprises can receive compensation of up to 100% of expenses, but no more than 20,000 euros per company. The funds will go towards purchasing nets and equipment. The authorities also hope to create a market for catfish meat.

The authorities of the Italian region of Veneto have announced the launch of a financial program to combat European catfish in Lake Garda. The invasive predator has multiplied rapidly, posing a threat to local fish fauna and the natural balance. The most acute situation has developed in the southern part of the lake on the border with Lombardy, where fishermen encounter specimens over two meters long and weighing more than 500 kilograms. The catfish, being at the top of the food chain, destroys local fish species and damages gear, harming the fishery. Regional fisheries councilor Dario Bond stated the need for urgent intervention. 100,000 euros have been allocated for the program. Fishing enterprises can receive compensation of up to 100% of expenses, but no more than 20,000 euros per company, for the purchase of nets, equipment, and storage facilities. The authorities also hope to create a market for catfish meat, which is in demand in Central Europe, creating jobs. A similar approach was already used to contain the blue crab in the Adriatic.