Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS)

Why are Invasive Species a Problem?

Natural "checks and balances" such as predators, parasites, diseases, and competitors that otherwise control populations within their native ranges may not exist in areas where these organisms are introduced. This creates an environment where they can dominate and outcompete native fauna.  In addition, native species are not adapted to living with these introduced species, and this can quickly upset the natural balance of an ecosystem and create cascading effects that lead to many negative impacts.​

​  Ecological Impacts 

Include the degradation of native habitats and ecosystem function, reduced abundance of native species, and the loss of biodiversity (the community of unique organisms within specific habitats).

​  Economic Impacts 

Invasive species behavior can cause increased costs to businesses and individuals due to interference with normal operations or infrastructure. In addition, tourism dollars are lost when recreational experiences such as hunting, hiking, fishing, swimming, and boating are no longer possible or pleasant.

​  Human Impacts 

Are wide-ranging and often seen with invasions by non-native species that become aquatic nuisances. This results in an inability for Kentuckians to enjoy our natural heritage and pass along our favorite fishing, hunting, and recreational areas to future generations.​ AIS like the Silver Carp can impact humans by physically colliding into them while boating, people can be cut on their hands and feet by zebra mussel shells, and some species like the lionfish exhibit a poison on their spines that people can react to in negative ways.

Here are Some Resouces on Aquatic Invasive Species​

The following are key organizations that provide resources to help you find and identify potential AIS species in your area.  

Hydrilla dominates a previously balanced and diverse lake bottom in Kentucky. (Photo: KDFWR)

Invasive zebra mussels were found in a popular aquarium decoration, shutting down their sale and distribution in the US.  (Photo: USFWS).  For more information on zebra mussels being found on Marimo moss balls, read USFWS: Invasive Zebra Mussels Found in Moss Balls.

Dead Asian carp pile up below a dam after contracting Gas Bubble Disease. (Photo: Paul Rister)

​

AIS ​Wat​chlist

These species are not known to be in Kentucky yet, so if you think you see them, take a picture and report.

1. Round goby (Neogobius melanostromus)
   
2. Northern Snakehead fish (Channa argus)
   
3. Alabama Bass (Micropterus henshalli)
   
4. Prussian Carp (Carassius gibelio)
5. Golden Mussel (Limnoperna fortune)​​

What You Can Do

​

While on or Around the Water

​ ​ ​ Consider joining ​ iNaturalist.org​​ ​

​

You can use your camera or your phone camera, and share what you see, and even get answers if you don’t know what it is. 

While in iNaturalist, you can join a Kentucky AIS project (i.e., Kentucky's ANS Invasive (Exotic/Nuisance/Noxious) Species Project) and become one of our top contributors. ​

 

​

​ Report to Us Directly   ​

If you see something, report it​! Contact the KDFWR Fisheries Division at 1-800-858-1549.

​

​​

Anglers and Water Recreationists

​ ​ ​ Clean Your Equipment​​ ​

​

Clean your boat, anchor, and other items that may have been submerged in water. This is best done by rinsing your transportation sources and equipment thoroughly with a hard spray or HOT (120° F) water, like that found at a do-it-yourself carwash.​

  Drain Equipment Before Leaving the Water ​  ​​

Drain equipment that may retain water before leaving a water access or shoreline property, and allow equipment to dry thoroughly before using it in another waterbody.

​ Use Proper Bait Bucket Practices ​  ​​

DO NOT DUMP leftover bait! DISPOSE of unwanted bait, including minnows, leeches, and worms, in the TRASH. Dumping of bait is a major pathway that allows nuisance species to spread between waterways.​

Clean Your Pets ​  ​​

If your dog goes swimming, wash it with clean water and brush its coat.​

​

​​

Aquarium and Water Garden Owners

​   ​DO NOT release fish and aquatic plants into the wild. ​

​

Release or escape of fish and plants from aquariums and water gardens can harm Kentucky waters and native species. Aquarium fish can carry diseases that can kill native fish, and invasive plants can clog waterways and snag boat propellers.

  Make sure you are an informed consumer when purchasing aquarium or water garden products. ​ ​​​​

Ask questions and read about the hobby you are participating in. Most retailers have knowledgeable staff, and many locations provide information about the species you want to purchase on the aquarium or aquarium shelving. There are local clubs and experts online that can answer your questions and ensure you get the most enjoyment out of your hobby.

​ Suggested alternatives to release ​  ​​

• Give/trade with another aquarist, pond owner, or water gardener
• Donate to a local aquarium society, school, or aquatic business
• Seal aquatic plants in plastic bags and dispose of them in the trash
• Contact a veterinarian or pet retailer for guidance on humane disposal of animals
  

For more information about protecting our environment by not releasing unwanted fish and aquatic plants, visit http://www.habita​ttitude.net/ and http://takeaim.or​g/​

​

For more information about how to prevent the spread of invasive species, please visit these websites:

 

 

​​Kentucky Laws and Regulations

​​Programs and Project Plans

​​More Resources