Minnesota State has experienced the occurrence of invasive species in most of its aquatic habitats especially lakes. For instance, in the four major great lakes in Voyageurs National Park has been invaded by spiny water fleas and rusty crayfish. The spiny water flea is scientifically referred to as Bythotrephes longimanus. The species originated from Europe and Asia. It was first discovered in L. Ontario in the year 1982. They were introduced by a ballast of water ships. The species threaten the lakes’ ecosystem by competing with other animals for food. It has impacted the aquatic ecosystem in that: they feed on zooplankton which is an important food for native fish, they have caused the elimination and decline of some species of zooplankton. Invasion of spiny water flea has changed the lake's biodiversity in that there is reduced numbers of other native fishes like yellow perch due to competition for food from the species. The decrease in yellow perch had causes decrease in walleye growth which alters the food web in the ecosystem. (“Aquatic invasive species,” 2017)
The rusty crayfish, scientifically recognized as Orconectes rusticus originated from Ohio River drainage basin. The fish was spread by anglers who brought them to use as fishing baits. The species was first introduced in the year 1960 according to Capelli and Magnuson (1983). It has caused displacement of other crayfish, stiff competition for food and increased predation. The biodiversity effects caused by the species include reduction of aquatic plants abundance and diversity, reduced number of other crayfish and destruction of their habitats. The invasive species are being controlled and monitored by the national park service together with the Minnesota department of natural resources. It is done through the implementation of the invasive species laws, conducting public education and providing information about the invasive species. Their populations are kept in check by monitoring and keeping them at lowest levels possible.
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References
Capelli, G.M., and J.J. Magnuson. (1983). Morphoedaphic and biogeographic analyses of crayfish distribution in Northern Wisconsin. J. Crustacean Biol. 3:548-564.
National Park Service. (2017). Aquatic Invasive Species. Voyageurs national park aims to protect Interior lakes from exotic species and fish diseases. Retrieved from www.nps.gov/voya/learn/nature/aquatic-invasive-species
