![]() We have learned that harvest by anglers can remove over 25% of the local population, which goes a long way toward reducing snakehead numbers. For example, we have been studying the fish community in the Blackwater River drainage to assess changes following establishment of Northern Snakehead. We are monitoring the status of snakehead populations in several Chesapeake Bay tributaries, and are studying whether they can be controlled through removal. Learn more about invasive species in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Their unwelcome presence can destroy ecosystems and cost millions of dollars. The Maryland Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office is working with state and federal partners to determine the most effective way to reduce the spread of this invasive species invasive speciesĪn invasive species is any plant or animal that has spread or been introduced into a new area where they are, or could, cause harm to the environment, economy, or human, animal, or plant health. ![]() Authorities in all states are working to control snakehead populations, and prevent colonization of additional waterways. Northern Snakehead is listed as an injurious species under the Lacey Act, meaning it cannot be possessed or transported live. Northern Snakeheads have also been found in rivers in NY, PA, and AK. Soon after in 2004, snakeheads were found in the Potomac River, and have since been found throughout nearly all of the Chesapeake Bay watershed. In 2002, they were first found in a pond in Crofton, MD. The United States Department of Agriculture considers the snakehead fish “injurious wildlife,” and it is federally regulated.Northern Snakehead is native to Asia but has successfully colonized the Chesapeake Bay watershed. “If possible, take pictures of the fish, including close ups of its mouth, fins and tail (and) note where it was caught,” state officials said. In Georgia, it is illegal to possess one without a valid wild animal license.Īnglers who believe they’ve caught a northern snakehead should kill it immediately and freeze it, officials said. It can also breathe air, and survive in low oxygenated systems, including on land, officials said.Ī snakehead fish is considered a non-native invasive species, which means it affects native species by competing for food and habitat. The long, thin fish has a dark brown blotchy appearance and can grow up to three feet in length. While this is the first time it’s been discovered in Georgia, snakeheads have been reported in 14 states nationwide. ![]() “We are now taking steps to determine if they have spread from this water body and, hopefully, keep it from spreading to other Georgia waters.” “Thanks to the quick report by an angler, our staff was able to investigate and confirm the presence of this species in this water body,” said Matt Thomas, chief of fisheries for the Wildlife Resources Division. And officials are warning anyone who comes into contact with the species to kill it immediately.Īn angler caught the northern snakehead fish this month in a pond in Gwinnett County, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division said Tuesday. An invasive fish species that can breathe air and survive on land has been found in Georgia for the first time.
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