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Species Of Asian Carp Reproducing In Great Lakes Watershed

Nancy Stone
/
Chicago Tribune
Asian Carp

Federal scientists say they've found evidence for the first time that Asian carp have reproduced successfully within the Great Lakes watershed. The U.S. Geological Survey says four grass carp taken from the Sandusky River originated there and are the result of normal reproduction. Grass carp are among several invasive species imported to the U.S. from Asia decades ago. Experts are more concerned about keeping bighead and silver carp out of the Great Lakes because they eat plankton that is crucial for other fish. But scientist Duane Chapman says bighead and silver carp have similar spawning requirements to grass carp. He says the discovery indicates controlling Asian carp will be difficult if they become established in the Great Lakes.

Jim has been with WCBE since 1996. Before that he worked as a reporter at another Columbus radio station, and for three newspapers in Southwest Florida.
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