Local Perception on the Invasion of Plecos (Glyptoperichthys gibbiceps) and Ecosystem-based Management in Tempe Lake, South Sulawesi, Indonesia

Abstract

Tempe Lake in South Sulawesi, Indonesia, is encountering a global threat on biodiversity and people well-being: the invasive alien species. The invasion of plecos (Glyptoperichthys gibbiceps) deteriorates ecosystem conditions at Tempe Lake, including bank erosion and changes in lake ecosystem function. Local communities in Wajo, a district located adjacent to Tempe Lake, implemented several approaches to reduce pleco population e.g., direct killing, sun-drying, and pleco-based food processing. However, these efforts failed due to the lack of economic incentives and social acceptance of the food made from plecos. Local perception towards the pleco invasion and management alternatives needs to be understood. This study examined local perception on the pleco invasion, villager knowledge about the plecos, and ecosystem-based management. A survey-based study was conducted in 17 villages adjacent to Tempe Lake in Wajo during August to November 2022. A semi-administered questionnaire was employed to collect data i.e., household socioeconomics, villager perception and knowledge, and management alternatives. In total, 200 household representatives participated in the questionnaire of which 53.5% are fishermen. Local fishermen recognized drastic declines in their catch due to increasing pleco population, which directly affected fish consumers because they needed to pay for more expensive fish. The fishermen group expressed strongly that the pleco invasion needs to be controlled now. They perceived that current management was ineffective, especially direct killing of the plecos. Local communities expressed an ecosystem-based management with economic incentives for local community participation is the key. Furthermore, a cost-benefit analysis of proposed projects is essential for effective implementation. Local communities, both villagers and local administration, need clear and sufficient information to help them see potential gains and losses from their actions whether they decide to “do no nothing” or “do something about it.”