Asian Carp: The Invasive Flying Fish

Asian Carp have intense impacts on Illinois freshwater systems. Introduced into Midwest waterways to clean algae, parasites, and weeds from freshwater systems, these flying fish are now invasive, causing many problems for local ecosystems, as well as human livelihoods and economies. They have outcompeted native fish, impacted water quality and river systems throughout the Midwest, and they feed on everything: plankton, plants, mussels, shad, buffalo, bass, catfish, and even other Asian carp. If the carp become abundant in the Great Lakes, it would be detrimental to commercial and sport fishing and other industries. Midwest organizations and businesses are working to prevent this disaster by using carp for fishing bait, pet treats, or human consumption, and by hosting fishing tournaments to remove Asian carp. This presentation highlights my semester-long project researching the history, ecological and economic impacts, and possible solutions to the current Asian Carp invasion in Illinois waterways.