How Aquatic Species Invade

 

Invasive species are transported between water bodies in several ways:

• Boat traffic and boat trailers: plant fragments stuck to boats and watercraft, wrapped around motors, trailers and fishing gear and microscopic animal larvae in bilge water can move AIS between water bodies
• Bait or bait buckets: If released into the water, animals used as live bait or accidentally caught in bait buckets can become invasive species
• Aquarium and water garden disposal: pets and plants that are dumped from aquariums or water gardens into natural water bodies may end up taking over their new environments
• Planting: Individuals planting aquatic plants along their property may introduce an invasive species to that water body
• Wildlife: plant fragments or seeds snagged on waterfowl or mammals can spread invasives throughout the ecosystem
• Rivers: streams flowing out of infested lakes can spread AIS downstream throughout the watershed

Preventing the Spread of AIS

Humans are the primary reason for the rapid spread of AIS; it is important that everyone does their part to prevent the further introduction and spread of invasive species.

Steps YOU can take to prevent the spread of AIS:

• Know your surroundings. Be aware of which lakes, ponds and rivers are known to be infested with invasive species; Click here for the RI AIS distribution map
• Recognize the usual suspects. Learn to identify common aquatic invasive species in RI; Click here for a guide to identifying common aquatic invasive species
• Inspect and clean. Examine your boat and trailer before and after any use. Carefully remove any mud, plant or animal material before transporting your boat, gear and equipment.
• Allow time to dry. Clean and dry anything that came in contact with the water (boat, trailers, recreational equipment, clothing, dogs, etc.)
• Isolate and drain. Empty water from boat wells and motors far away from lakes and rivers.
• Discard into trash. Dispose any unused bait into proper garbage receptacles; do not empty bait buckets into the water.
• Prevent releases. Avoid disposing plants, fish or animals from aquariums or water gardens into local water bodies.

 

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PRIMARY RESOURCES

• Aquatic Invasive Species
• Aquatic Invasive Animals
• Aquatic Invasive Plants
• RIDEM Response
• New England Aquatic Nuisance Species Panel
• Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force
• National Invasive Species Information Center
• USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species
• Protect Your Waters
• Invasive Plant Atlas of New England

DOCUMENTS

• Identification and Management of Aquatic Invasive Species
• Identifying Freshwater Aquatic Invasive Species in Rhode Island
• Aquatic Invaders in RI- Findings from DEM AIS Surveys
• Map of AIS in RI
• RI Invasive Species Management Plan
• 2012 RI Lakes Report