The predatory fish that went shopping: Inspectors from the Ministry of Agriculture caught a crocodile fish in an ornamental pond in a shopping complex in the South.
It all started when a complaint was received at the Ministry of Agriculture's hotline on suspicion of possessing a carnivorous fish, in one of the ornamental ponds located in the shopping center.
Crocodile fish caught in an ornamental pond in a shopping center in the South // Photo: Ministry of Agriculture
When inspectors from the Ministry of Agriculture arrived, they were amazed to discover its variety and size - no less than one meter long.
The complaint came following an incident that occurred several days earlier, during which a woman was bitten when she put her hand in the pool.
In view of the danger of his continued possession in the pond, it was decided to catch the fish immediately using special equipment.
It is still unclear how the fish got to the pond, and the case is under investigation by the Ministry of Agriculture.
The fish in the pond, Photo: Ministry of Agriculture
In general, according to the fishing regulations, it is prohibited to keep this fish in Israel.
This is an attacking fish that can even kill a human.
It feeds mainly on fish and waterfowl, and can reach up to two meters in length.
The name of the crocodile fish was given to it due to its nose, similar to that of a crocodile.
It originates in freshwater bodies in North America, and is not at all accustomed to Israel's weather conditions.
Hagai Neuberger, Superintendent and Enforcement Officer in the Fisheries Division of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development: "It is important to mention that according to the Fisheries Regulations, holding prohibited fish is a criminal offense. .
Encountered on suspicion of possession of prohibited fish? Contact the Ministry of Agriculture's hotline 6016 *