Invasive Chesapeake Channa, reducing the fish populations in Maryland – the chronicle of South Maryland

A recently released survey by the Ministry of Natural Resources in Maryland confirms that the invasive type of fish species of Chesapik Chana, also known as the Northern Snake, significantly changes local fish populations in the waterways of Maryland. Since its first documented appearance in 2002, this aggressive predator has expanded its scope throughout the country, causing a decline in local species and transforming ecosystems.

Researchers at the Maryland Natural Resources Department analyzed fishery communities in the drainage of the Black House River near Cambridge before and after the arrival of Chesapik Chana. The results reveal that 19 out of 22 fish residents had a decrease in the population after the introduction of the predator. The study, published in the Journal of Fish and Wildlife Management at the end of 2024, shows that local species are struggling to compete in areas where invasive fish have caught.

Chensapeake Channa demonstrates a remarkable adaptability, spreading at approximately three new underwater underwater bays Chesapeake annually. Unlike many species of fish, it has the ability to spawn repeatedly a year, launching thousands of eggs on each cycle. This quick reproduction made it difficult to restrict efforts.

To track the long-term impact of species, biologists compare fish population data from the early 2000s with recent studies conducted between 2018 and 2023. Before the arrival of Chesapiq Chanus, the most abundant species in the drainage of the Black Water River are Billy white perks, were white perch, were white perch, Brown Bullhead and Black Crappie. However, years after the predator has established itself, the ordinary carp and Gizzard Shad have outstripped the ecosystem, ranked third. The study found that the types of prey, usually targeted by Chesapeake Channa, including Black Crappie, Bluegill and Pumpkinseed, have suffered the biggest decline.

Scientists have excluded changes in water quality as a cause of changes in fish populations, concluding that predation and competition from invasive species are the main causes. These discoveries are in accordance with national studies of invasive fish species, suggesting that their introduction can lead to widespread interruptions in water food chains.

Invasive species management remains an expensive challenge in the United States, with an estimated economic burden exceeding $ 100 billion a year. In Maryland, fishing like Blue Crab and Strped Bass are not only key to the economy, but are also deeply embedded in the culture of the state. The unauthorized spread of non -sequent species such as Chesapeake Channa can have long -term consequences for local industries that rely on stable water ecosystems.

One of the strategy that Maryland has accepted to limit the spread of the species, encourages commercial and entertainment fishing. Fishermen are encouraged to catch and remove the CHANCEPIC, which is considered high quality food for food. With a soft aroma and hard texture, it has become a sought after option in local markets and restaurants of seafood, especially in spring and summer. Unlike many fish games, there are no restrictions on the crop of Chesapikek Chana in Maryland, which allows year -round efforts to reduce its number.

For those who are interested in learning more about the management of invasive fish or participation in Chesapeake Channa sports fishing, resources are accessible through the Maryland Natural Resources Department.

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