Bighead Carp (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis)
Silver Carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix)
Silver and Bighead Carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix and Hypophthalmichthys nobilis)
Silver and Bighead Carp (Asian Carps) were first captured from the wild in the 1980’s, and escaped aquaculture facilities through the 90’s. Both fishes have spread to most of the Mississippi River drainage, including the Missouri and Ohio Rivers and their tributaries. Both fishes grow quickly to a large size, up to 50 pounds).
Asian Carps pose a considerable hazard to boaters, mainly due to Silver Carp jumping into moving boats. This can cause human injury and property damage, comparable to being hit with a bowling ball. Bait bucket transfer can move these fish around dams and into reservoirs, causing serious deleterious impacts on fisheries and recreational boating. Silver and Bighead Carp are in direct competition with native fishes for food and space, and may prey on the larvae of native fishes. Visit our website for the USGS fact sheet, and more information.
USGS, Columbia Environmental Research Center
For more information:
USGS Fact Sheet
USGS Non-Indigenous Aquatic Species Fact Sheet
USGS Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center Fact Sheet |
