Wednesday June 3, 2026
Cambodianess —
Extreme heat and critically low water levels have killed about 2,000 kilograms of fish in Tamouk Lake in Siem Reap province, marking the first mass fish die-off recorded in the protected conservation area and raising fears that more losses could follow if rains do not arrive soon.
Community leaders and local authorities say soaring temperatures, stagnant conditions and oxygen-starved water caused the deaths in the 87-hectare fish sanctuary, an important breeding ground for fish that replenish stocks across the Tonle Sap ecosystem.
“This is the first time we have seen fish deaths on such a large scale,” said Ly Tongky, head of the Kampong Khleang Community. “The main cause appears to be a lack of oxygen resulting from low water levels and a high concentration of fish.”
Tongky warned that the situation could worsen as the dry conditions continue.
“I am worried that the number of fish deaths will continue to increase if there is no rain,” he said. “I would like to request that relevant authorities speed up efforts to restore the lake and strengthen conservation measures to prevent further losses.”