5 Invasive Fish in NC Listed by Officials Under Aquatic Nuisance Species (2023)

Five of the state's invasive fish species have been recognized as aquatic nuisance species by North Carolina authorities.

Invasive Fish in North Carolina

Other plants and animals, as well as numerous invasive fish, are ecological annoyances in our state. As a result, the NC Wildlife Resources Commission classifies them all as "Aquatic Nuisance Species," instructing locals on the necessary precautions to be taken to prevent the spread of fish into new bodies of water.

Organisms known as aquatic nuisance species disturb the biological balance of infected inland, estuarine, or marine waters.

The invasion may harm the water body's recreational, commercial, and agricultural functions in addition to causing ecological harm, according to EPA.

The lack of natural predators along with their biological advantages over local animals allows invasive species to dominate ecosystems, according to Rachael Hoch, assistant chief of NCWRC's inland fisheries section, who commented through spokesperson Anna Gurney.

Therefore, the presence of invaders might negatively affect the survival and population of native species.

Ecosystems in North Carolina are also impacted by climate change, with particular effects on freshwater fish species.

While changing rainfall patterns attract invasive species that may outcompete or even prey on native species, rising temperatures decrease the amount of dissolved oxygen in the water.

The survival of local aquatic species is severely threatened by this.

North Carolina's top five invasive fish species are listed below, along with a brief description to aid locals in recognizing the species:

#1 Alabama Bass Seen in Lake Chatuge

The Alabama bass, averaging 18 inches, sports an olive green hue on top and lighter shades on its sides. A distinctive horizontal band with a blotchy pattern adorns its tail area.

Unlike the Largemouth Bass, it boasts rougher scales and raw spots on its sides. With its jaw not extending beyond the eye when fully shut, this species exhibits unique physical traits.

#2 Flathead Catfish Seen in Nine Locations, Including Sutton Lake and Lake Waccamaw

The Flathead catfish, a formidable creature, can reach up to 61 inches in length and weigh nearly 125 pounds. Its defining features include a broad, flat head with a protruding lower jaw resembling an underbite. The body's coloration ranges from brown to yellow, adorned with black or olive-brown mottling, and gradually fading to a dirty white or yellow belly.

Notably, inside its mouth, the upper jaw boasts a large tooth plate with backward extensions on each end.

#3 Red Swamp Crawfish Seen in Nine Locations, Including Cape Fear

The Red Swamp Crawfish, reaching up to 5 inches in length, undergoes distinct color changes during its life cycle. Juveniles often display striped or plain patterns, while adults adopt a dark red hue, almost appearing black, with a black wedge stripe on the underside. Their rough bodies and long, narrow pincers are characteristic features of this species.

#4 River Herring Seen in Atlantic Slope Rivers

The River Herring, found up to 10 inches long in reservoirs, is a small herring species. It exhibits a dark dorsal side, bluish to greenish coloration, and features light sides with horizontal darker stripes.

#5 White Perch Seen in the Piedmont and Mountain Reservoirs

The White Perch, growing up to two feet long, boasts a thin, deep-bodied structure. Its sides are primarily silver, occasionally displaying olive or golden hues. Notably, this species lacks dark lines along its body and a tooth patch.

Upon Sighting or Catch of Invasive Fish

According to NOAA, invasive species can spread through various means, including marine debris, recreational watercraft, and ballast water from oceangoing vessels.

Their rapid expansion in new environments poses challenges for eradication efforts.

The NC Wildlife Resources Commission advises North Carolinians to report sightings or catches of invasive fish and provides a helpline (800-662-7137) for assistance.

To prevent further spread, locals are urged to clean fishing and boating equipment thoroughly, drain water from boats and gear, and dry out equipment.

Washing with hot, soapy water is recommended.

Never move fish, plants, or organisms from one body of water to another to halt the spread of invasive species, News Observer noted.