ResearchTopic: Invasive Species

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 […]

Mudmat Fact Sheet

Species at a glance Mudmat is a relative newcomer to North America, only arriving in 1992. It is a low-growing, mat-forming, invasive aquatic plant that has remained largely under the radar due to its small size and the public’s lack of familiarity with it. Species Description Mudmat is characterized by tiny plants, usually less than […]

Freshwater Jellyfish Fact Sheet

Species at a Glance While similar in appearance to marine jellyfish, the Freshwater Jellyfish is considered a member of the hydra family and is not a true jellyfish. It is widespread around the world and has been in the United States since the early 1900’s. This jellyfish uses stinging cells to capture prey; however, these […]

Common Carp Fact Sheet

Species at a Glance The Common Carp is one of the oldest species to have been introduced globally and is present on every continent except for Antarctica. It is considered among the world’s worst invasive species according to the Global Invasive Species Database and is the most frequently reported nuisance fish in the United States. […]

Water Lettuce Fact Sheet

Species at a Glance As its name suggests, Water Lettuce is a floating aquatic plant that resembles an open head of lettuce. It is a popular plant used in aquariums, ponds, and water gardens. A Great Lakes study found that 20% of aquarium and pet stores near Lakes Erie and Ontario carried Water Lettuce, increasing […]

Water Hyacinth Fact Sheet

Species at a Glance Water Hyacinth is a free-floating flowering perennial plant that forms dense mats in the water which can cover the surface of a lake or pond. Its beauty makes it a popular ornamental plant for ponds; however, its fast growth makes it one of the worst aquatic weeds in the world, as […]

Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia (VHS) Fact Sheet

Species at a Glance Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia (VHS) virus is a highly contagious fish pathogen that is known for causing significant fish kills in the Great Lakes region of the United States and Canada. In Pennsylvania, regulations are in place to prevent its spread through infected fish or contaminated water. Species Description The VHS virus […]

ResearchTopic: Invasive Species

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