A major concern is that snakeheads might out-compete (and eventually displace) important native or other established predatory fish that share the same habitat. Snakehead fish breeding occurs during the summer months (June to August).ĭuring all of their life stages, snakehead fish compete with native species for food and habitat. Northern snakehead fish can spread by swimming underwater and are also capable of breathing out of the water to move short distances on land.

Small prey, such as zooplankton, larvae, and small fish and crustaceans populations may be threatened by feeding juvenile snakehead fish. Many native species are outcompeted for food resources. Northern snakehead fish are strong predators at the juvenile and adult stages of their life cycle.

Why is snakehead fish invasive species? What are the environmental impacts of the snakehead fish? The short answer is yes, northern snakehead is an excellent fish to eat. This has led to many people wondering if you can eat snakehead. Interest has been picking up lately in the invasive fish species the northern snakehead (Channa Argus). Potential: In the Potomac River, the habitat and feeding preferences of northern snakehead appear to overlap with that of the recreationally important largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). What fish species are affected by the northern snakehead?Ĭhanna argus has the potential for moderate socio-economic impact if introduced to the Great Lakes. What are snakeheads? Fisheries sci- entists consider snakeheads to be invasive species because they have the potential to threaten native fishes, the recreational fishing industry, and aquatic ecosystems. Why are snakehead fish an invasive species? Physical removal of the fish using nets, traps, angling, electrofishing or biological control by introduction of predators are not likely to be successful for large infestations. MANAGEMENT: The potential control methods for a snakehead infestation are limited, but vary with each specific infestation site. How is the snakehead fish being controlled? Within their native and introduced ranges, they live in small and large streams, canals, rivers, ponds, reservoirs, and lakes. Snakeheads are freshwater fishes with little, if any, tolerance for saltwater. Snakeheads can eat practically any small animal or fish they encounter. Potential ecological and economic impacts Should they find a way into natural freshwater ecosystems snakeheads have the potential to cause enormous damage to recreational and commercial fisheries, including salmon. What negative effects is the northern snakehead having on its new ecosystem? Because they are voracious predators that quickly grow and reproduce, they have the potential to outcompete native species, making them a significant ecological threat. The northern snakehead has been introduced into Central Asia, including Kazakhstan, eastern Europe, Japan, and the United States. Snakeheads are highly invasive and have the potential to disrupt recreational and commercial fishing, harm native fish and wildlife, and impact our economy.

What impact do snakehead fish have on the economy? Introduction and Spread It is believed that the northern snakehead fish entered the United States when aquarium owners discarded their unwanted exotic captive species into local waterways. How did the snakehead fish get to the new habitat? 8 How do northern snakehead fish spread?.7 What are the environmental impacts of the snakehead fish?.4 How is the snakehead fish being controlled?.3 What is the habitat of a snakehead fish?.2 What impact do snakehead fish have on the economy?.1 How did the snakehead fish get to the new habitat?.

Are snakehead fish edible