A NSW Government agency has responded after a video of a woman carrying a massive fish away from a pond in a popular Sydney park went viral online.
A bystander filmed the woman hauling the torso-length carp over her shoulder at Centennial Park, which was later viewed by thousands of people on social media.
The clip has sparked intense debate, with some viewers criticising the woman for illegally fishing in a public park, while others argue she should be applauded for helping to remove an invasive species that damages local waterways.
As the discussion intensifies, a spokesperson for government agency Greater Sydney Parklands has addressed the video.
“Fishing is not permitted in Centennial Parklands to protect water quality, wildlife and visitor safety,” the spokesperson told 7NEWS.com.au.
“Carp is an invasive species that are found in most freshwater systems in eastern Australia, including Centennial Park.
“Rangers patrol ponds at Centennial Park and intervene when necessary.”
The species is listed as a “pest” on the parklands’ website, which notes carp degrade water quality and “limit the opportunity for native fish populations to become established”.
“They are prolific breeders and reduce the survival chances for native fish,” the website states.
“Over the years, various carp control methods have been trialled including electro-fishing, netting and line fishing.
“Although several tonnes of carp have been removed, these programs have not eradicated the carp population which remain an ongoing problem.”
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development of NSW (DPIRD) also notes the species has “destructive bottom-feeding habits” while their breeding process makes them “impossible to eradicate completely”.
While admitting recreational fishing has a limited effect on carp populations, the DPIRD recommends any caught carp to be disposed of and not returned to the water.
“Captured carp must be killed in a humane manner,” the department says.
“Wherever possible, captured carp should be utilised ... (For example) human consumption, pet or stock feed or fertiliser.
“Where there are no options for utilisation, captured carp must be disposed of appropriately.”