Invasive fish species reported in Nova Scotia for first time, DFO says
An invasive fish species has recently been discovered in a small waterway north of New Germany, N.S., by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada. The Oriental weatherfish, also known as pond loach, was found in Morgans Falls last month, marking the first reported sighting of this species in the Maritimes.
According to DFO, the egg-bearing Oriental weatherfish likely made its way into the ecosystem after being released from an aquarium. Ken Donnelly, supervisor of the Nova Scotia Invasive Species Council, emphasized that the introduction of invasive species into ecosystems is often a result of human activity. He explained that pond loaches are popular aquarium species and can cause significant issues when released into bodies of water where they are not native.
Donnelly warned against the release of non-native species into the wild, stating that while people may have good intentions, it ultimately leads to disastrous consequences. The unauthorized release of aquatic species into unfamiliar habitats is illegal under Canadian law.
Pond loaches are described as freshwater fish with an elongated, eel-like body, featuring a small mouth with six to eight barbels or whiskers. They typically have a light brown to green coloration with scattered dark speckles and a light underbelly. DFO mentioned that pond loach has also been reported in southern British Columbia but has not been documented anywhere else in Canada.
The presence of this invasive species brings concerns of habitat destruction and competition for food and resources, which can result in a decline in native populations. It is crucial to prevent the spread of invasive species to protect the biodiversity of our ecosystems.
