Aquatic Invasive Species …of the Thompson / Shuswap Region

What we will cover.. Overview of invasive fish species Impacts of invasive species Distribution of invasive species Options for rectifying invasive species

What is a “Spiny Ray”? A freshwater spiny ray fish’s dorsal fin contains a series of spines

What are invasive species? In the Thompson/Shuswap region aquatic (fish) invasive species are: Spiny Ray Fishes: Smallmouth & Largemouth Bass Yellow Perch Pumpkinseed

Where are they now? Found in 9 Shuswap/Thompson region lakes Skmana/Little Skmana Skimikin Gardom Phillips Nellies Forest Miller Fleming

What are the impacts? Minor species interactions Disease Predation Disturbance of food chain & habitat Parasitism Extinction of native species

Why should we care? Invasive fish species threaten: Trout Salmon Whitefish Char Invasive species disrupt entire ecosystems Invasive species can cause economic hardship Invasive Species can lead to fishery closures Invasive species can lead to extinction of local/native species

What are some options? Option 1: Biological Controls Diseases affecting the invasive species Biological (sterilization) control agents Pheromone trapping Predator introduction

What are some options? Option 2: Physical Controls Nets and traps Containment barriers Explosives Electrical devices Draining lakes or streams

What are some options? Option 3: Chemical Controls Introduction of target chemicals Rotenone is most well known for fish targeting Natural fish toxin derived from plants Used since mid 1600’s First used in BC in 1947 Low toxicity to birds and mammals Easily dispersed Allows systems to be “restarted”

What else are we doing? Public education / community input Offering a reward for information Lake treatments Monitoring programs Inventory/assessment

What can you do? Transporting invasive species is illegal Report suspicious activities to: RAPP: 1-877-952-7277 Report invasive species sightings Educate yourself