TAMBUNAN: Sabah’s renowned tagal system, a vital practice for river conservation and a significant ecotourism draw, is now under threat from a dangerous virus.
The tagal system, which regulates fish populations in rivers to maintain ecological balance, is being severely impacted by an outbreak of Koi Herpesvirus (KHV), which has caused a sudden and alarming die-off of fish in several key rivers across the state.
Datin Dr. Shuhadah Mustapha, Director of Sabah Fisheries, confirmed the situation following a series of sudden fish fatalities involving pelian fish and other species.
Laboratory tests have identified KHV as the culprit, a pathogen known for its rapid and lethal effects on freshwater fish populations.
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