Invasive “Devil Fish” Threatens Belize’s Rivers

A new underwater threat is spreading through Belize’s waterways, and it’s causing serious concern. Known locally as the Devil Fish or Pez Diablo, this armored catfish has made its way into the country via the Rio Hondo from Mexico and is now invading the New River.

Far from harmless, the invasive species is disrupting an already stressed ecosystem. It competes with native fish for food and burrows into riverbanks, causing erosion, uprooting trees, and altering natural water flows. The result? Murkier rivers, clogged waterways, and threats to clean water and food sources.

Worryingly, the Devil Fish can survive on land for hours, increasing its chances of spreading even further. The Department of the Environment is warning the public not to move or release these fish into any other rivers, creeks, or water bodies, as their full impact is still being studied—but the damage so far is clear.