Great white pelican

The Great white pelican (Latin: Pelecanus onocrotalus) belongs to the order Pelecaniformes and the family Pelecanidae. In the field of professional aquaculture, this species is considered a significant pest that poses a direct threat to the productivity and economic stability of commercial fish farming operations.

These birds primarily impact pond culture systems, specifically those designed for carp and other freshwater species. Because of their high metabolic requirements, a single pelican can consume large quantities of fish daily. In enclosed or semi-enclosed aquaculture systems, the cumulative impact of a feeding flock can lead to devastating losses of stock and juvenile recruitment.

The biology and lifecycle of the Great white pelican are characterized by migratory behavior and complex social structures. They are opportunistic foragers, frequently targeting high-density fish ponds where food is easily accessible. Their nesting and breeding cycles significantly increase their need for protein, driving them to frequent managed water bodies consistently.

The nature of the damage includes not only the physical loss of fish biomass but also mechanical injuries inflicted on survivors. These injuries often become focal points for bacterial and fungal infections, reducing the overall health status of the stock. Additionally, these birds act as vectors for various parasitic organisms that negatively impact fish growth and market quality.

Effective mitigation strategies are essential for sustainable fish production. Control methods focus on exclusion and deterrence rather than eradication. Operators often employ physical barriers such as netting over smaller ponds, high-frequency sound emitters, and automated laser deterrents. Management of vegetation around ponds to reduce landing spots is also an effective cultural control practice.