Invasive Species in Wisconsin's Waters

2519 Words6 Pages

Invasive species do not only affect other species in their ecosystem, but also cost the United States more than one hundred and twenty million dollars each year in damages (“Cost” par. 2). Invasive species come in all different forms, and all have a negative impact on the environment. These species can come into a new area without being detected at first, but as time goes on their effects can soon be seen. Efforts are being made to prevent these invasive species from destroying fish population and habitat, but in order to be successful they need to be done on a much larger scale. In order to protect Wisconsin's waters, which are already infected with many invasive species that cause great damage to our bodies of water, more actions need to be taken. It is vital to remove all invasive species from Wisconsin’s waters because it will improve fish habitat, native fish population, and water quality.

Fish habitat is the underwater world which many people do not see. It is just like the world that people live. Fish and plants reproduce, eat, and live in this environment, and even face challenges such as invasive species. It is said that “Invasive species are non-native species that threaten the diversity or abundance of native species due to their uncontrollable population growth, causing ecological or economic impacts” (“Invasive” par. 1). Vegetation plays a big role for fish habitat and for a lake itself. Aquatic habitat provides living space for not only fish but also for many aquatic insects. These insects then in turn provide fish and other species of animals with food (“Native” par. 4).

This vegetation also provides much cover for fish. The aquatic plants provide a great source of food supply and act as a nursery for young fish (“Native” par. 5). Vegetation serves many purposes in fish habitat; besides keeping fish safe. It also helps keep the lakes clean. Aquatic plants cycle the water and help absorb pollutants. Another great benefit of these aquatic plants are that they help hold sediment and the banks of the lakes in place while providing oxygen into the water (“Invasive” par. 7-8). Unfortunately invasive species are destroying such vegetation. The Common Carp or “Cyprinus carpio” is one such fish that is causing great damages to lakes all around the world.

More about Invasive Species in Wisconsin's Waters

Open Document