Overview

• The proportion of marine fish in Gatún Lake has risen from 26% to 76% of biomass since the Panama Canal's expansion in 2016, according to a new study.
• Larger marine predators, such as the Atlantic tarpon, are now more prevalent, significantly altering the lake's ecological balance.
• Researchers attribute the shift to increased saltwater flow into the canal due to larger locks built during the expansion, allowing more marine species to enter.
• The decline in freshwater fish species is impacting local fisheries, which rely on these populations for livelihoods.
• Scientists warn of potential cross-ocean migration of invasive species through the canal, posing broader ecological risks.