Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are organisms that are not native and cause significant harm to an ecosystem when introduced. Harmful impacts can occur to municipal water supplies, recreation, and agriculture. Aquatic invasive species can include amphibians, crustaceans, fish, plants, and mollusks. Local species of concern include Zebra/Quagga Mussels, New Zealand Mudsnails, Hydrilla, Eurasian watermilfoil, and Curly Pondweed.
Effects of Aquatic Invasive Species
Zebra/Quagga Mussels – Very prolific and can completely infiltrate waters very rapidly. They remove nutrients from water, clog pipes and waterways, damage boats, and out-compete native mussels.
New Zealand Mudsnails – Very prolific and can out-compete native snails and can alter water chemistry at high densities.
Hydrilla – Clog lakes, ponds, and reservoirs. Out-compete natives, alter water chemistry, reduce fish forage.
Eurasian Watermilfoil – Displace natives, clog lakes, reduce fish forage and invertebrate abundance.