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Impact of the GMO Fighting Fish on the Ornamental Fish Industry of Thailand

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“Glofish” are fish that have been genetically modified or so-called Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) by inserting genes obtained from certain types of jellyfish or sea anemones into the DNA that controls the fish's genetic characteristics, resulting in proteins with distinct characteristics. When exposed to blacklight, the fish's body glows and reflects, giving it an unusual and lovely appearance. Glo-Fish Betta which has been traded is currently available in six different colors: Electric Green, Cosmic Blue, Starfire Red, Sunburst Orange, Moonrise Pink, and Galactic Purple. In 1999, the National University of Singapore produced the Glofish by isolating Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) from jellyfish and injecting it into Zebrafish embryos, causing them to glow. The idea is to develop a fish that can detect pollution by glowing in the presence of toxins in the environment.

Currently, various kinds of ornamental fish have been genetically modified to become glowing fish with the trade name Glofish. Zebrafish, Black Skirt Tetra, Sumatran Tiger Barb, and Betta are among the species imported for breeding in Thailand, however Angel Fish, Rainbow Shark, Cichlid, Oscar, Pompadour, and others are not.

Currently, numerous nations oppose the use of GMOs in living organisms due to the potential for genetic contamination of indigenous species, particularly ornamental fish. Once genetic pollution infiltrates gene pools, its eradication becomes challenging, often resulting in the extinction of native species, a significant source of apprehension.

This could potentially detrimentally affect Thailand's ornamental fish sector, particularly impacting Betta species. Betta, notably the Glofish Betta variant, has been genetically altered and introduced into the ornamental fish market for the past two years, including its introduction to Thailand for hybridization purposes.

This poses a significant threat to Thailand's Betta industry as these modified fish can interbreed and transmit their luminescent traits to subsequent generations. Consequently, genetic contamination has ensued within the native Siamese fighting fish population. Thailand's Betta industry has been yielding approximately 20 million fish annually for export, amounting to a total value of 200 million Baht per year, with Betta reigning as a top exported ornamental fish for over two decades. Initially, some countries may find the hybridization of Glofish intriguing, enhancing their vibrancy and distinctiveness. However, the global proliferation of anti-GMO sentiments in animal and plant sectors may adversely affect the livelihoods of numerous farmers, producers, and exporters.

The opposition to GMOs by many countries necessitates additional scrutiny of genetically modified aquatic animals, resulting in increased time for export procedures and leading to delays in the exportation of ornamental fish, which may cause inconvenience and loss of time and the fish's health. For initial screening, UV Blacklight can be used to illuminate and inspect samples. The detailed examination requires DNA testing using PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) or Real-Time PCR techniques. This is complex and often comes with high costs.

Genetically modified Glofish (from a copyright-holding company) reveals luminescence throughout its body.

Genetically modified Glofish that has been crossbred with Thailand’s beautiful Betta and exhibits partial luminescence across the body and often emphasizes the illuminated areas around the eyes.

Thailand became the 128th member country to join the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety on 8 February 2006. Currently, there are 139 member countries in the Protocol. This protocol delineates procedures aimed at mitigating the risks associated with GMOs on biodiversity, the environment, and human health. Consequently, if Thailand opts to cultivate GMO fish, it may face international trade barriers, including restrictions on the importation of ornamental fish or even a total prohibition on trading ornamental fish suspected to be GMOs.

In Thailand any person who cultivates genetically modified fish will be considered to have committed an offense under Articles 65 and 144 of the Royal Ordinance on Fisheries, B.E. 2558 (2015) and its amendments, as well as the Notification of the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives on the Determination of Aquatic Animals Prohibited from Breeding in the Kingdom of Thailand, B.E. 2564 (2021), aims to safeguard aquatic animals and ecosystems from potential harm. It strictly prohibits the cultivation of fish that have been genetically modified or altered in any way (GMO/LMO) of all types. Any person who violates Article 64 or Article 65 paragraph two may face a maximum penalty of one year in prison, a fine not exceeding one million baht, or both. Those who release free aquatic animals in fishing areas in violation of paragraph one may be sentenced to a maximum of two years in prison, a fine not exceeding two million baht, or both.

Introducing genetically modified aquatic animals or "Glofish" into the ornamental fish industry could potentially create obstacles in trade, leading to negative impacts on the Thai ornamental fish industry valued at more than 1,000 million baht annually. The industry produces a wide species of ornamental fish for international markets, with Siamese fighting fish being particularly renowned for their vibrant colors and intricate patterns, driving up global demand.

Siamese fighting fish are available for purchase both online and offline, contributing to an annual economic value exceeding 200 million baht. These fish are considered ornamental and play a crucial role in generating export revenue, providing income for farmers, and boosting the country's economy. The Siamese fighting fish holds the prestigious title of being the national aquatic animal. It is worth noting that Siamese fighting fish farmers are globally recognized for their expertise. For instance, efforts are being made to breed Siamese fighting fish with colors resembling the Thai National flag, as well as creating new and unique multicolored patterns that are aesthetically pleasing and rare, thus increasing their value. It is important to avoid resorting to genetic modification techniques that could potentially harm the environment in the long run.

Farmers affected by the prohibition on cultivating Glofish or GMO aquatic animals due to legal violations can switch to raising popular fish species that have high market demand. These species such as guppies, molly, sailfin, platy, and balloon fish, typically have shorter cultivation periods, ranging from 3 to 4 months. They can continue using the existing ponds for cultivation. If they develop breeds that meet market demand for beauty, these aesthetically appealing fish breeds have the potential for global export sales. Fish within this group are consistently ranked among the top 1-10 in Thailand's ornamental fish export market, demonstrating sustained global demand over time.

Impact of the GMO Fighting Fish on the Ornamental Fish Industry of Thailand

Impact of the GMO Fighting Fish on the Ornamental Fish Industry of Thailand

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