Asian Carp
Asian carp outcompete fish, harm waterfowl, lower water quality, and disrupt ecosystems
Invasive Asian Carp Damage Ecosystems
Asian carp do serious damage to the native fish populations in the lakes and rivers that they infest because they out-compete other fish for food and space. Carp are a cause of lower waterfowl populations and are also thought to lower water quality, which can kill off sensitive organisms like native freshwater mussels.
What are Asian Carp? Asian carp are a family of freshwater fish native to Europe and Asia. The bighead carp, black carp, grass carp, and silver carp are collectively known as Asian carp or invasive carp. They are considered one of the most damaging aquatic invasive species due to their wide distribution and severe impacts.
The battle to keep invasive Asian carp out of the Great Lakes
Extent and Impact of Infestation
Asian carp were introduced to the U.S. in 1973 for aquaculture but escaped into the Mississippi River system, spreading widely. Now established in 48 states, they are particularly abundant in the Mississippi River basin, and also found in Canada.
Asian carp are fast-growing, aggressive feeders that outcompete native fish and disrupt ecosystems. Black carp threaten endangered mussels and snails, while grass carp alter food webs. Bighead and silver carp filter plankton, depriving native fish and mussels of food. Their high numbers raise concerns over competition, and no effective control methods exist aside from preventing their spread.
Silver carp also pose a safety risk to boaters, leaping up to ten feet when startled, potentially injuring people and damaging boats. This makes activities like water skiing hazardous in infested areas.
Despite their threat, efforts to control Asian carp have been inadequate. The 2011 Stop Asian Carp Act and subsequent legislation sought to block their spread using barriers and other measures. In 2020, $25 million was allocated to control them in the Tennessee and Cumberland river basins, but the problem persists.
Status of a Solution
The Invasive Species Corporation (ISC) has secured an exclusive license from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) for Piscamycin™, a targeted solution designed to combat invasive fish species. Previously registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Piscamycin is now undergoing a rigorous re-commercialization process through a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with the USGS.
Under this agreement, ISC is not only working to restore Piscamycin’s EPA approval but is also developing species-specific bait formulations to enhance its effectiveness. Our team is currently conducting all necessary research, testing, and regulatory work to bring Piscamycin back to market as a viable tool for controlling invasive fish populations.
We anticipate having limited quantities available for emergency use by the third quarter of 2025, with full-scale production and broader availability to follow pending final regulatory approval. ISC remains committed to providing science-backed solutions to help manage invasive aquatic species and protect native ecosystems.
Silent Invaders: Asian Carp
American Fishing Club presents Silent Invaders, a fast-paced series on invasive species. Episode 3 explores Asian carp’s impact.
