Exotic and invasive species impacts each of our lives in every part of the world. These affects are felt both environmentally and economically. Because of their adverse affects on the ecosystem, up to 46% of the plants and animals on the federal endangered species list have been negatively impacted. Four of the more destructive and aggressive invaders are the Zebra mussel, ruffe, spiny water flea, and milfoil. These species are easily transported by humans on boats, trailers and fishing gear and can infest an entire lake or river with one encounter.
Zebra Mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) are clams that have a yellowish or brownish shell with wavy bands and are the size of a fingernail. Their larvae are too small to be seen, but they live for weeks in any water left in your boat. As zebra mussels grow, they form clumps and damage your boat, kill native clams, foul beaches with stinky razor sharp shells, and clog water intake pipes.
Ruffe (Gymnocephalus cernuus) is a cold or cool water fish from the northern European are resembles a yellow perch. In just a few years, it has spread to other parts of Lake Superior and has become the dominant species in the Minnesota's St. Louis River. The ruffe is a fierce competitor for food and habitat and as their presence increases, other species are expected to decrease.
Spiny water flea (Bythotrephes cederstroemi) is a are large zooplankton measuring one-half inch long and found in the Great Lakes as well as several inland lakes. They collect on fishing line and look like gobs of jelly with black spots. This invader disrupts the ecosystem by competing with small fish for food.
Eurasian Water Milfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum) is a plant with long, flexible stems with feather-like leaves attached in whorls of four. Milfoil grows and spreads so fast that it quickly chokes out native plants and harms fish habitat. This plant grows in thick mats which hamper boating, fishing and swimming.
Without proper control and management, these exotic invaders will create an even greater problem for shippers, boaters, commercial fishermen, anglers, beach-goers, and lake and riverfront property owners. Aquatic Engineering offers the following solutions:
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