The cabinet yesterday approved a proposal to make the Siamese fighting fish (Betta splendens), or the Siamese betta, as Thailand's national aquatic species.
The National Identity Committee (NIC) previously suggested that the Siamese fighting fish, or pla gud in Thai, be the national aquatic animal, which led to the proposal being submitted to the cabinet for endorsement.
The proposal won cabinet approval yesterday largely because the fish, which previously earned recognition by the Culture Ministry as a "national cultural heritage" creature, has a long history in Thai culture, said Athisit Chainuwat, assistant spokesman for the Office of the Prime Minister.
In terms of utility, the fish's national aquatic animal status will benefit various sectors, particularly the fish breeding business and fish breeding technology, he said.
The Siamese fighting fish may also be adopted as the emblem of Thai fisheries, he said.
The fish has good potential to represent an aspect of Thainess, he added.
