Nakdonggang Regional Environmental Office Urges Prompt Application for Permit to Temporarily Raise Ecosystem-Disrupting Species

Wolf Turtle and Pigweed Arisaema ... Until April 27

The Nakdong River Basin Environmental Office is accepting applications for permits to temporarily continue breeding and cultivation of the newly designated invasive species, the wolf turtle and Ambrosia artemisiifolia, until April 27.

The newly designated wolf turtle is highly predatory and has no natural enemies, posing a significant threat to the aquatic ecosystem. Ambrosia artemisiifolia is known to inhibit the growth of native plants and cause allergies in humans.

Wolf Turtle
[Image provided by Nakdonggang River Basin Environmental Office]

Existing breeders and cultivators are allowed to continue breeding and cultivation for six months after designation, but if they wish to continue beyond this period, they must obtain a permit from the Nakdong River Basin Environmental Office by April 27, attaching the relevant documents in accordance with Article 24-4 of the Act on the Conservation and Use of Biodiversity.

If breeding or cultivation continues without obtaining the temporary permit within the period, offenders may be subject to imprisonment for up to two years or a fine of up to 20 million won under related laws, so caution is advised.

Ambrosia artemisiifolia Photo provided by Nakdong River Basin Environmental Office

The wolf turtle collection system is operated in cooperation with the Wildlife Management Association, so those who wish to give up breeding can contact the Natural Environment Division of the Nakdong River Basin Environmental Office. The application period is until June 30.

Director Hong Dong-gon stated, “We plan to strictly manage invasive species to preserve the native ecosystem and biodiversity of the Nakdong River Basin,” and added, “We also ask the public not to release or abandon invasive species they own as pets or for other purposes into the ecosystem without permission.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.