Date: 8/22/08
Contact: Edwin Lyngar
Phone: (775) 688-1548

GAME WARDENS SEIZE PIRANHAS FROM LAS VEGAS RESIDENCE

Game wardens with the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) seized nine Red Bellied piranhas from a Las Vegas home during an investigation yesterday.

Red Bellied Piranhas (Pygocentrus) are a prohibited species in Nevada and pose a danger to people and native species if they are released into the wild. Charges are pending, and the investigation continues as game wardens ensure all the fish have been found.

“No one wants to have to worry about piranha in Lake Mead, and we take these prohibited species laws very seriously,” said Lieutenant David Pfiffner, game warden from Las Vegas who headed the investigation.

Game wardens have seized piranha on several occasions throughout Nevada in the past few years. Game wardens are concerned that piranha could be released into Nevada lakes and establish a wild population of piranha in Nevada waters, according to Pfiffner. NDOW often deals with exotic species and prohibited species that pose a threat to native fish and wildlife. Most recently, NDOW also seized more than 100 clawed African Frogs in a similar investigation.

Anyone with information on piranha or other prohibited species should contact NDOW through the Operation Game Thief Hotline at (800) 992-3030. Penalties for possessing these types of fish go as high as six months in jail and a $500 fine.

The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) protects, restores and manages fish and wildlife, promotes fishing, hunting, and boating safety. NDOW’s wildlife and habitat conservation efforts are primarily funded by sportsmen’s license and conservation fees and a federal surcharge on hunting and fishing gear. Support wildlife and habitat conservation in Nevada by purchasing a hunting, fishing, or combination license. For more information, visit www.ndow.org.