VIENTIANE, July 2 (Xinhua) -- Laos' Ministry of Agriculture and Environment plans to release 72 million fish fingerlings into rivers, lakes and wetlands nationwide in 2026 as part of efforts to restore aquatic biodiversity and promote the sustainable management of the country's freshwater resources.
The plan is a part of events celebrating the Lao National Aquatic and Wildlife Day on July 13, the Vientiane Mai newspaper reported on Thursday.
Laos is home to more than 500 native freshwater fish species, including several rare and threatened species such as the Mekong giant catfish, underscoring the importance of continued conservation efforts.
Recognizing fisheries as a vital national resource, the government has prioritized the conservation, development, and sustainable use of aquatic biodiversity. ■
