Aquatic Invasive Species

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  Invasive & Non-Native Species

  Learn the difference between invasive and non-native species.

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  Clean. Drain. Dry.

  Learn about Aquatic Invasive Species and how to prevent them.

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  Marine and Great Lake Invasive Species

  Learn more about marine and Great Lake Invasive species.

 

Aquatic invasive species are species that are not native to an ecosystem and whose introduction causes or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health.

Aquatic invasive species are a growing risk to park resources and values. In the United States there are currently more than 250 non-native aquatic species from other continents and more than 450 nonnative are from North America but have been moved outside their native ranges.

For many centuries, humans have contributed to spreading non native species around the globe. These species have been introduced either intentionally or unintentionally.

Examples of Intentional Introductions

• Releasing unwanted aquarium fish into a lake.
• Stocking sport fish outside their native range.
• Liberating unused bait fish.
• Introducing non-native species for management (bio-control, ecosystem engineering)

Examples of Unintentional Introductions

• Trailered boats.
• Ballast water discharge.
• Escape of organisms from hatcheries and aquaculture facilities.

Aquatic nuisance species can be spread many ways including ships, boats, barges, aquatic recreation (fishing, hunting, boating, diving, etc.), water gardening, seaplanes, connected waterways and many other pathways. Through these and other means, thousands of terrestrial and aquatic invasive species have been introduced into our park waters.

To learn more about aquatic invasive species, click here.