Guwahati, Feb. 2 -- The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has requested a response from the central government regarding the use of two invasive, non-native fish species as biological agents for controlling mosquito populations in various states, including Assam.

The case involves the introduction of Gambusia Affinis (Mosquitofish) and Poecilia Reticulata (Guppy) into water bodies as a method to control mosquitoes.

These fish species were released in several states, such as Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, Punjab, and Andhra Pradesh, according to the plea. Additionally, the Guppy species was introduced in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Punjab, and Odisha.

The National Biodive...