| There have been many arguments and discussions about the status and effects of the introduction of the African catfish in Brazil. Many people argue that the effects are or will be extremely negative. At least one state (Rio Grande do sul), in the South of the country has issued a law (Fepan No.18/93) prohibiting the import of such species into the state and has demanded that the producers who have the African catfish stocked to commercialize the fish as soon as possible. Other states of Brazil are increasing production of catfish (African and American) both of which were introduced into the country (Ref. 13686). The species has become widespread in Guaraguaçu as per sampling done November 2002 and May - September 2004 using gill nests, longlines, cast nets, beach seines and fish traps. Twenty-three specimens, lengths ranging from 33.4-78.5 cm including 3 mature females were caught (Ref. 57722),
Ref:
FAO, 1997
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