BERRIEN SPRINGS, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – After a routine search for invasive species within Michigan’s lakes and waterways, the Department of Natural Resources revealed that trace amounts of DNA was found belonging to an invasive carp species.
Out of more than 200 water samples collected in June 2023 from locations between Lake Michigan and Berrien Springs, one particular sample taken near Marina Island showed evidence of genetic material from silver carp.
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“A positive eDNA sample does not necessarily indicate the presence of live fish,” said Seth Herbst, DNR Fisheries Research Program manager. “It is possible for genetic material to be introduced from other sources, such as boats or fishing equipment used in another state where invasive carp are present, then transported and used in Michigan waters.”
He added:
“We use eDNA results as one piece of information to determine the best response to the potential threat of an invasive species,” said Herbst. “In this case, we have requested assistance from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to conduct another round of eDNA sampling in the St. Joseph River beginning Sept. 5, with results to be processed as soon as possible.”
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has been conducting monthly electrofishing and netting in the St. Joseph River each summer since 2022 in order to capture and remove grass carp according to the DNR; no silver carp have been found so far.
“Along with our participation in the eDNA surveillance program, we continue to be diligent with early detection efforts, such as conducting fish population surveys, increasing awareness among anglers, and maintaining an invasive carp reporting website for anglers to share any suspicious catches or observations that occur during their outings,” said Herbst.
Currently, a coalition of organizations is working to build a $1.15 billion engineering project which will serve to stop invasive carp species from entering Lake Michigan and safeguard the nearly 100 year old Brandon Road Lock and Dam near Chicago.
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“These species of invasive carp are moving toward Michigan and threaten our fisheries. If these carp become established in Michigan waters, they will eat the food supply that our native fish depend on and crowd them out of their habitat,” according to DNR officials.
The agency also encourages the public to learn more about the invasive carp and the threats they pose to Michigan’s waters at Michigan.gov/InvasiveCarp or InvasiveCarp.us.
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