The Fisheries Department is promoting <i>pla gud</i>, or Siamese fighting fish, as the national fish so commercial farming can begin to boost the economy, department chief Adisorn Promthep said.
Mr Adisorn said he has signed a proposal seeking a registration that will elevate the fish’s status. It will be submitted to the National Identity Office under the Prime Minister’s Office for approval.
He said once the status is recognised, fighting fish farming could be promoted which would generate money and create jobs.
He added credible records show that pla gud of the Betta splendens species are native to Thailand and first collected for fighting during the reign of King Rama III.