The term “invasive carp” refers to several species of related fish that originate from Asia. As many as ten types of carp are considered invasive around the world, but in the United States and Canada “invasive carp” refers to four of these species: bighead carp, black carp, grass carp and silver carp.
Invasive carp have damaging effects on the environment, our way of life, and livelihoods. Because of their voracious feeding habits, prolific reproduction and lack of predators, they quickly become abundant and destructive. They out-compete native fisheries and disrupt the entire food chain in aquatic ecosystems.
Now found throughout the Mississippi River Basin, invasive carp were originally imported into the United States for use in aquaculture ponds. They found their way into the lower Mississippi River through flooding and accidental releases. The Mississippi River Basin is like a freshwater superhighway, giving invasive carp access to scores of America’s rivers, lakes and reservoirs.
After decades of multiplying and spreading in every direction, silver carp and bighead carp are now abundant in the Illinois River and within striking distance of the Great Lakes. Black carp are currently encroaching on the Illinois River, and ongoing research is revealing the growing threat of grass carp to Lake Erie.
With our Great Lakes economy, environmental values and exceptional on-the-water recreation under threat, the Invasive Carp Regional Coordinating Committee stands united in efforts to stop the spread of invasive carp.
Upper Illinois River Invasive Carp Status Map
The 2022 capture of a single silver carp in Lake Calumet.
The 2017 capture of a single adult silver carp above the electric barrier system, but below T.J. O'Brien Lock 9 miles from Lake Michigan.
The 2015 detections of three larval fish in the Dresden Island Pool. There have been no other detection before or after the 2015 event.
The 2010 capture of a single bighead carp in Lake Calumet.
The 2009 capture of a single bighead carp during rotenone action in the Lockport Pool.
All distances measured in river miles from Lake Michigan (Chicago Harbor). Source: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Illinois Waterway Navigation Charts.
How You Can Help
Everyone plays a role in preventing the spread of invasive carp. Educating yourself and others is key in the fight against these aquatic invaders.
- Learn the difference between juvenile invasive carp and other young bait fish such as Gizzard Shad.
- Only use wild-caught baitfish in waters where they came from and don’t move live fish from one location to another.
- Drain lake or river water from live wells and bilges before leaving any waterbody.
- Become an ambassador for your watershed by helping others learn these simple steps.