Invasive Animals

A team of USGS scientists is currently working with the MDNR, ODNR, USFWS, and academic institutions to evaluate the use of grass carp baits and attractants as a tool for resource managers. The science team aims to integrate the use of baits and attractants to increase aggregation of grass carp near targeted capture sites to enhance the multi-jurisdictional removal program associated with the Lake...

No current technology can specifically target Grass Carp Ctenopharyngodon idella for control within aquatic ecosystems. Other than TFM (3-trifluoromethyl-4-nitrophenol) for Sea Lamprey Petromyzon marinus control, available control chemicals used in aquatic invasive species management programs are non‐selective and typically applied throughout the entire water column, resulting in equal exposure of...

The proposed project will explore the technology of hydroacoustics to detect dreissenid mussels and analyze habitat variables to model preferred future habitat locations to help control the spread of invasive dreissenid mussels.

Wetland and Aquatic Research Center and Fort Collins Science Center are coordinating a long-term, landscape-scale Burmese python research strategy for South Florida.

WARC researchers are addressing an urgent need to identify specific habitat use of pythons on Key Largo, FL.

WARC Researchers are using a variety of methods to assess mammal communities across the Greater Everglades.

In March 2021, USGS researchers and partners conducted the first-ever Virtual Fish Slam. The bi-annual Fish Slam event helps monitor new introductions and document range expansion of known non-native freshwater fishes.

Research on Guam has led to development and validation of numerous effective control tools, including the advancement of reptile control to support native species recovery.

WARC researchers are performing visual encounter surveys and passively capturing Cuban treefrogs to remove as many of the invasive anurans as possible.

Assessing Impacts of Emerging and Established Diseases to Aquatic Ecosystems The role of disease in freshwater mussel declines has been largely ignored due to the lack of appropriate diagnostic tools. Furthermore, health assessment of mussels in conjunction with restoration and propagation has not been considered during stocking and augmentation activities. This project will develop standard...

As invasive zebra and quagga mussels ( Dreissena polymorpha and D. rostriformis bugensis, respectively), known as dreissenid mussels, continue their expansion throughout North America, the need to develop selective control tools has become critical for resource managers. Registered molluscicides for dreissenid control are limited, and often must be applied within or under a barrier to achieve...

USGS researchers are investigating novel methods for the use of copper in dreissenid mussel (zebra and quagga mussels) control. Our research includes laboratory assays and field applications with a focus on understanding influences on efficacy and quantifying nontarget impacts. Our research has been and is conducted in collaboration with academic institutions, such as the University of Minnesota’s...