Carp are asian carp youtube family of fish native to Europe and Asia. Mississippi River and rivers and lakes within the Mississippi rivershed. These four species of fish were introduced to the U.

1970’s to control algae, weed, and parasite growth in aquatic farms, weeds in canal systems, and as one form of sewage treatment. These captive fish eventually escaped into the Mississippi River basin and established breeding populations. Asian carp are slowly making their way up the Mississippi River and its tributaries, and have been found as far north as Minnesota, including individual silver and bighead carps within the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. There is no indication that they are spawning here, but they still represent a threat to our valued aquatic ecosystems.

Carp are also thought to lower water quality, which can kill off sensitive organisms like native freshwater mussels. Silver carp are known to jump out of the water to escape threats. This behavior, by such large fish, can injure boaters, skiers, and damage boats and onboard equipment. Minnesota they could threaten the resort and sport fishing industry. By out-competing native fish species for food and habitat, carp may reduce the populations of native fish that are so important to anglers. High water often creates an “open river” condition as Mississippi River dams open their gates, which may allow invasive carps to move past what is otherwise a barrier.

Flooding can spread these fish as well, because flooding can connect water bodies that aren’t normally connected. Invasive carp are also spread by humans. The release of live bait containing young carp has introduced these fish to other water bodies. Barge and recreational watercraft moving through Mississippi River locks may also permit invasive carp to move through as well. Releasing even a few carp into a body of water can become a huge problem. They lay hundreds of thousands of eggs at a time, which means populations grow and spread quickly. Because of this, they can quickly out-compete native species, and put ecosystems in danger.

The invasive carp are voracious feeders and they can become quite large. Exceptional individuals may weigh as much as 110 pounds, although most are smaller. Grass carp consume plants, and can drastically change river and shoreline vegetation and spawning and cover for native fish. Black carp eat snails and mussels, including native species that are already endangered and may endanger reintroduced populations. State and federal agencies are monitoring the Mississippi River and its tributaries for Asian carp and studying a number of ways that could prevent the further spread of these species. Consider trailering your watercraft around locks whenever possible. Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash, NOT in water bodies.