1 April 2016
In response to the discovery of a catfish in Te Weta Bay, Lake Rotoiti on 16 March, our biosecurity staff commenced targeted survey work in Lake Rotoiti to identify how widespread catfish are likely to be.
Results from Te Weta Bay have identified 52 catfish, predominantly juveniles of less than 150mm. These were caught from 21 nets set at Te Weta Bay. One juvenile catfish was caught at Okere Inlet. No catfish have been found in Okawa Bay.
Extensive netting will continue in other parts of Lake Rotoiti next week and the University of Waikato electric fishing boat will start work in the Ohau Channel and parts of Lake Rotorua.
Please see the attached Frequently Asked Questions sheet or feel free to contact me on 0800 884 881 ext 7571 if you have any questions.
If anyone sees a catfish in the Bay of Plenty, they should report it to us by calling 0800 STOP PESTS (0800 786 773).
Our catfish factsheet, webpage www.boprc.govt.nz/aquaticpests and recent media release also provide background information.
