Aquatic invasive fish are exotic, nonnative, or new to the area water-dwelling fish that spend the majority of their lives in water rather than on land. They pose a significant threat to our aquatic resources, water supplies, or water infrastructure. With no natural enemies to keep their population in check and their ability to outcompete Nebraska’s native species for food and other resources, aquatic invasive fish can become widespread in a waterbody quickly.
Three categories have been established for designated aquatic invasive fish that are found in Nebraska:
Category 1: Potential Aquatic Invasive Species
Category 1: Potential Aquatic Invasive Species are those species that have not yet been sampled in Nebraska and are considered a high threat. Those organisms include:
Category 2: Priority Aquatic Invasive Species
Category 2: Priority Aquatic Invasive Species are those species that are currently present in Nebraska but with limited distribution. They are considered highly unwanted species and all efforts should be taken to prevent the expansion of their populations. Those species include:
Category 3: Established Aquatic Invasive Species
Category 3: Established Aquatic Invasive Species are those species that are well established in Nebraska and total elimination is impossible. Protocols established in Nebraska Administrative Code Title 163, Chapter 2, sub-sections 012.02 to 012.04 do not apply to the species on this list, which includes:
