Piranha in Pahang? Not sure

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, September 23, 2026

A fish resembling a red-bellied piranha was caught in Pahang’s Klau dam, but Malaysian authorities cannot confirm its identity since the specimen was discarded before examination. The Fisheries Department is urging fishermen to preserve such catches for analysis and plans to use DNA testing to prevent the spread of potentially invasive non-native species threatening local ecosystems.

A fish caught in Pahang’s Klau dam exhibiting features similar to a red-bellied piranha has raised questions about its identity, but Malaysian authorities say confirmation is not possible based on available evidence. The Fisheries Department has been unable to verify the species because the specimen was discarded after being caught.

Department Director-General Datuk Adnan Hussain said the fish’s morphology, seen in a short video taken by a fisherman, appeared closer to the red-bellied piranha (Pygocentrus nattereri). However, he emphasized that visual assessment via video alone is insufficient for accurate identification. Key characteristics such as morphology, scales, and teeth require direct examination to distinguish between a piranha and the red-bellied pacu (Piaractus brachypomus), a similar-looking Amazonian fish.

The red-bellied pacu closely resembles juvenile piranhas and can even integrate with schools of piranhas, but differs in its omnivorous diet and larger size, sometimes growing up to 90 cm. Both species are non-native to Malaysian waters, raising concerns about their potential impact on local ecosystems.

The initial fish, captured on August 26, was documented in a short video before being discarded on land, preventing further analysis. A second video surfaced on social media showing another fish resembling a piranha reportedly caught in Sungai Klau on September 19; however, this specimen was also not handed over to authorities.

To address ongoing uncertainties, Adnan encouraged local fishermen to preserve and surrender any suspected piranha or pacu specimens. The Fisheries Department plans to collaborate with Aquaria KLCC to conduct DNA and environmental DNA analyses using their reference collection of live piranhas.

Adnan also highlighted concerns over the continued online sale of prohibited non-native fish species. He stated that such sales require prior special approval from the authorities, and that live exotic fish legally imported must be accompanied by health certificates to ensure they do not introduce diseases that could threaten the aquatic ecosystem. The Fisheries Department will continue inspections of ornamental fish businesses nationwide and take enforcement action as necessary to protect biodiversity from invasive species.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.