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  Channel NewsAsia 25 Feb 07
Grass carps released into Bedok Reservoir to mark 7th day of Lunar New Year
By Wong Siew Ying

Some 888 grass carps were released into Bedok Reservoir on Saturday morning by grassroots leaders and Aljunied GRC MPs, led by Foreign Affairs Minister George Yeo.

The event also featured lion dance stunt performances. It is part of celebrations to mark the seventh day of the Lunar New Year or "Ren Ri" which in Mandarin translates to "everybody's birthday".

The Chinese believe that the act of releasing of fish signifies new life. But there is also a practical reason for choosing this species - grass carps can help remove aquatic weeds.

However, not just any kind of fish can be released into reservoirs. The Public Utilities Board said fish, turtles and other animals could upset the ecological balance.

The 800 residents also learnt about the environment and water resources from an exhibition. - CNA/ch

links
Letters to the press in 2005 about animal release during Vesak Day
Ashley's email about volunteer efforts to stop release of animals.
Releasing animals: good or bad? a pamphlet used during efforts to educate people NOT to release animals particularly during Vesak Day.
Global Invasive Species Database of the IUCN Invasive Species Specialist Group: introduction to the issue, top 100 worst invasive species and more.
Invasive species weblog updated reports around the world on the impact of alien introduced species.
Invasive species on the Conservation Science Institute: an introduction to this global problem with brief descriptions of major species.
Related articles on Singapore: animal release into our wild places impact, issues, efforts, discussions
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