Atractosteus spatula, a first-record exotic alligator gar from Dal Lake in Kashmir, India, poses a potential threat to local fish species

Abstract

On May 11, 2023, the discovery of an exotic alligator gar, Atractosteus spatula (Lacepède, 1803), from Kashmir's Dal Lake made an enormous hue and cry among common masses. So far, fisheries experts and other researchers have not reported any adverse effect of these exotic fishes on local species except common carp, which compete with schizothorax for food and space in Dal Lake. The import of fish seed or unregulated ornamental fish trade is likely to blame for the invasion of exotic fish into the natural ecosystem. Considering the threats of this predatory fish becoming invasive, it could disturb the native fish diversity of the Lake. A thorough investigation should be done to ascertain whether Alligator Garfish have emerged in Dal Lake.