Invasive Devil Fish Threaten Bacalar’s Ecosystem

Bacalar, Mexico — The reproduction of the invasive “devil fish” (Pterygoplichthys) in Bacalar has triggered environmental alarms after a female specimen carrying eggs was discovered in Cenote Negro, confirming the species is now breeding in the region. The spread of this Amazonian fish poses a direct threat to the lagoon ecosystem, stromatolites, and the local economy.

Rapid Expansion Raises Concerns

Researchers from ECOSUR identified the specimen during a nighttime exploration, indicating the species has found favorable conditions to proliferate rapidly. Each female can deposit up to 3,000 eggs per reproductive cycle, heightening the risk of a large-scale invasion in a short period.

This situation not only endangers local biodiversity but also impacts fishermen and residents who rely on aquatic resources.

Ecological and Economic Consequences

The devil fish causes severe damage by disturbing sediments, excavating burrows, and destroying habitats. These actions erode shorelines, cloud the water, and disrupt conditions necessary for native species. Additionally, it consumes other fish eggs and aggressively competes for food, displacing local wildlife.

Weeks earlier, residents of Altos de Sevilla in Bacalar captured another specimen in a nearby water source. The area seasonally connects to rivers such as the Grijalva and Usumacinta, which may explain how the species reached Quintana Roo.

The discovery has alarmed communities, as it demonstrates the fish’s expansion beyond the main lagoon. Its presence also harms local fisheries by altering habitats and reducing populations of commercially valuable fish. Its ability to survive up to three days outside water complicates eradication efforts.

Urgent Measures Needed

Experts warn that without immediate action, ecological damage could become irreversible. Authorities and scientists urge the public not to release any captured devil fish back into the water. Instead, they recommend reporting sightings to ECOSUR, which coordinates monitoring and control efforts in the region.

Bacalar’s iconic turquoise waters are at risk. If the species continues to spread, it could devastate the ecological balance, harm tourism, and worsen existing environmental challenges facing the lagoon.