The presence of the catfish in Lake Garda is attracting attention not only from environmentalists and fishermen, but also from national media. Rai, the Italian national broadcaster, has decided to dedicate a prime-time dossier to the “alien” species invading Italy’s largest lake and the defense of native fish.
Respecting the lake also involves initiatives such as fish restocking. This practice is frequently used on Lake Garda to counter the decrease in the number of different species, caused by natural factors, fishing, and pollution. Recently, about 30,000 pike fry were released in the reed area of the lower lake. This operation was carried out by volunteers and technicians from the Upbs (Brescia Fishermen Union), which manages the regional hatchery in Desenzano. In addition, 200,000 grown trout have been released in the middle lake, while other species such as tench and perch are still growing in the Desenzano hatchery.
These actions aim to restore the ecological balance of Lake Garda and protect native species from the invasion of alien species, such as the catfish. The debate on the introduction of catfish into the lake has been ongoing for some time, with contrasting positions between those who believe its presence may damage the ecosystem and those who believe it should be managed sustainably.
Rai’s decision to dedicate a dossier to the topic is an important signal of the interest generated by the issue of catfish in Garda. This debate is crucial to finding effective solutions to protect the lake and its native species, while ensuring sustainable and responsible fishing.
It is hoped that this media attention will lead to greater awareness among the public and institutions about the need to adopt appropriate measures to protect Lake Garda and its precious fish ecosystem.
