ResearchTopic: Invasive Species

Virile Crayfish AIS Fact Sheet

Species at a Glance The Virile Crayfish, also known as the Northern Crayfish, is considered one of the most widespread invasive crayfish species in the United States. Its popularity as a live bait species has likely contributed to its spread through bait bucket release. Its large size, adaptability, and high reproductive capacity has made the Virile Crayfish a significant […]

Rapid Response Plan and Procedures for Responding to AIS in Pennsylvania

This rapid response plan for aquatic invasive species (AIS) is an inter-agency decision support tool designed to aid regulatory agencies (Appendix A: Authority) in conducting a coordinated and structured response to new AIS infestations. It outlines the steps to follow upon receiving a report and serves as a guide for determining when a response is […]

AIS Prevention Tips for Anglers

Recreational fishing provides both economic and social benefits to Pennsylvania. It is important that anglers take action to remove any “hitchhikers” from their equipment, boots, nets, clothing, and other gear that touched that water while fishing so that AIS are not spread to new locations. Tips for Anglers Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are non-native plants, […]

AIS Prevention Tips for Non-motorized Boaters

The non-motorized recreational community continues to grow in Pennsylvania, with many people enjoying canoeing, paddling, kayaking, and rafting. Unfortunately, non-motorized watercrafts have the potential to spread aquatic invasive species (AIS) to new waters when species attach to related equipment. Many AIS can survive out of water for five days or more, allowing them to infest […]

AIS Prevention Tips for Waterfowl Hunters

Waterfowl hunting is a popular pastime for many Pennsylvanians, and hunting activities contribute significantly to the recreational economy. However, aquatic invasive species (AIS) like Eurasian Watermilfoil and Zebra Mussels can threaten habitat for waterfowl and other wildlife. Hunters should take precautions to ensure they don’t spread plants and animals that can be accidentally transported on […]

AIS Prevention Tips for Teachers

Many teachers bring animals into their classrooms as a way to teach students about responsibility, pet care, animal science, and more. However, most teachers and students are unaware of the impacts of disposing unwanted live animals, plants, and microorganisms into local waters, letting them go down drains, or flushing them down the toilet when they […]

AIS Prevention Tips for Recreational Scuba Divers

Aquatic invasive species (AIS) such as invasive mussels can attach to recreational scuba diving equipment and be accidentally transported and spread to new waterbodies. Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are non-native plants, animals, or pathogens that cause harm to the environment, the economy, and human or animal health. Preventing their spread is important because once introduced, […]

Mystery Snails Fact Sheet

Species at Glance Mystery Snails are large freshwater snails commonly sold for use in freshwater aquariums and garden ponds. The term “mystery snail” refers to both the Chinese Mystery Snail and the Japanese Mystery Snail, which were previously thought to be the same species. Mystery Snails are popular in the aquarium, ornamental, and live food […]

White River Crayfish Fact Sheet

Species at a Glance The White River Crayfish, also known as the White River Crawfish or the Eastern White River Crayfish, is native to parts of the United States but has been introduced beyond its natural range. Although its environmental impacts have not been extensively studied, its rapid growth, high reproductive rates, and competitive nature […]

Red Swamp Crayfish Fact Sheet

Species at a Glance The Red Swamp Crayfish, also known as the Louisiana Crawfish or Mudbug, is a large and aggressive crayfish that can quickly dominate lakes, ponds, rivers, and wetlands. Often used in classrooms and as a popular food item, this highly adaptable crayfish has invaded the Great Lakes and beyond, impacting aquatic ecosystems […]

ResearchTopic: Invasive Species

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