Invasive Species

Invasive fish succeed because they encounter no co-evolved predators or parasites, have broad environmental tolerances, and often reproduce faster than native competitors. Nile perch introduced to Lake Victoria in the 1950s caused the extinction of over 200 endemic cichlid species — one of the largest vertebrate extinction events in recorded history. Lionfish (Pterois volitans) in the Caribbean reduce native reef fish populations by up to 65% within 5 weeks of arrival by a single individual. Round goby invasion of the Great Lakes disrupted native benthic communities while paradoxically benefiting some predatory fish by providing an abundant food source. Control options are limited; eradication is rarely achievable in open water systems.