Invasive Fish That Can Walk on Land Found in New York: ‘It’s Not Something We’re Going to Take Lightly’

In a concerning development for local ecosystems, the Northern Snakehead fish, an invasive species known for its ability to survive out of water, has been discovered in several locations across New York State. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) confirmed the presence of this species in areas including Lily Pond at Lake Ronkonkoma in Suffolk County, as well as in Flushing Meadows Park and Central Park in Queens.

The Northern Snakehead fish can endure for days without water, a trait that enables it to traverse land and relocate to other bodies of water independently. Heidi O’Riordan, a regional fisheries manager with the DEC, expressed alarm over the fish’s potential impact on the local fauna. “They can walk on land—and they can cross the road,” she noted, highlighting the fish’s unusual capabilities.

Ecologically, the arrival of Northern Snakeheads poses a significant threat. O’Riordan warned that these fish have no natural predators in New York waters and have a diet that comprises native species. “We are keen on addressing this issue swiftly to protect Lake Ronkonkoma’s bass population, among others,” she stated in an interview with CBS New York. While some anglers may find the species an exciting catch, O’Riordan reaffirmed the department’s commitment to managing the threat seriously.

The DEC has initiated action to counter the invasion by employing a method known as electrofishing. This technique involves using electric currents to temporarily stun fish for easier capture and identification. “Hopefully, we can get to them before they spread further,” Kevin Jennings of the DEC remarked, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

Originating from the Yangtze River Basin in China, the Northern Snakehead typically inhabits shallow bodies of water such as ponds, swamps, and canals. These fish exhibit a distinctive appearance, often described as having python-like markings, with the potential to reach lengths of up to three feet and weigh as much as 20 pounds.

The impacts of the Northern Snakehead’s establishment in New York extend beyond the immediate threat to native species; they have previously been reported in states including Maryland, Pennsylvania, Delaware, New Jersey, Florida, Arkansas, and Missouri. This species is classified as “Injurious Wildlife” at the federal level, and New York’s Part 575 Invasive Species Regulation prohibits the possession, sale, or transport of snakeheads within the state.

To mitigate the threat of spreading this invasive species, the DEC has issued guidelines for water recreationists. They advise cleaning boats and fishing gear thoroughly to remove any mud, plants, or animals before entering New York waters. Additionally, using certified bait and refraining from dumping aquarium contents or unused bait into water bodies or sewage systems are critical steps in preventing the Northern Snakehead’s proliferation.

As authorities continue to monitor the situation, the focus remains on eradicating this invasive fish from affected areas while safeguarding local aquatic ecosystems. The future of New York’s water bodies may depend on swift and decisive action against the unwanted intrusion of the Northern Snakehead fish.