nebraska aquatic invasive species pocket guide

POCKET GUIDE

AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES

Nebraska Aquatic Invasive Species Pocket Guide i

This guide is intended to increase awareness of aquatic invasive species (AIS) in Nebraska.

Publication in Nebraska was made possible through fundingfrom the Nebraska Invasive Species Project. Special thanks tothe Nebraska Invasive Species Council, the Nebraska AquaticInvasive Species Steering Committee, and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

Adapted by Karie Decker and Suzanne DeckerNebraska Invasive Species Project

Brazilian waterweed ~ Nature ConservancyNew Zealand mudsnail ~ United States Geological Survey

Zebra mussel ~ United States Geological SurveyRusty cray�sh ~ United States Geological Survey

Published 2010

Cover Photos

This guide was adapted from the Greater Yellowstone Area Aquatic Nuisance Species Pockt Guide. Original guide prepared by Diane McGee and Susan O’Ney , Grand Teton National Park. Original guide was made possible through funding from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, jackson Hole One Fly, and members of the Aquatic Invasive Species Subcommittee of the Greater Yellowstone Coordinating committee. Special thanks to the Madison River Foundation and Design by Random Acts of Creativity.

Nebraska Aquatic Invasive Species Field Guideii

a number of sources including:

AIS Working Group www.cleaninspectdry.com

Federation of Fly Fishers www.fed�y�shers.org

Global Invasive Species Database, managed bythe Invasive Species Specialist Group www.issg.org

Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission http://nis.gsmfc.org

Michigan Department of Natural Resources www.michigan.gov

National Aquatic Invasive Species Database http://nyis.info

National Institute of Invasive Species Science www.niiss.org

100th Meridian Initiative www.100thmeridian.org

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources www.invadingspecies.com

Protect Your Waters www.protectyourwaters.net

Sea Grant – Michigan www.miseagrant.umich.edu

Sea Grant – Minnesota www.seagrant.umn.edu

Sea Grant – Oregon http://seagrant.oregonstate.edu

Trout Unlimited Whirling Disease Foundationwww.tu.org/science/aquatic-invasive-species-ais

University of Florida/IFAS Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plantshttp://plants.ifas.u�.edu

USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission http://outdoornebraska.ne.gov

http://nas.er.usgs.gov

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Nebraska Aquatic Invasive Species Pocket Guide iii

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Invertebrates 45-56Bivalves 45-50 Asian clam 45-46 Quagga mussel 47-48 Zebra mussel 49-50 Crustaceans 51-52 Rusty cray�sh 51-52

Snails 53-56 Chinese mystery snail 53-54 New Zealand mudsnail 55-56

Pathogens 57-58 General Information

Simple things YOU can do 59-60

Introduction 1-4What are Aquatic Nuisance Species? 1What can you do? 2Reporting Procedure 3Species in Nebraska 4

Algae 5-6Didymo

Amphibians 7-8Bullfrog

Plants 9-34Brazilian waterweed 9-10Curly leaf pondweed 11-12Eurasian water-milfoil 13-14 Flowering rush 15-16 Parrot feather 17-18 Purple loosestrife 19-20 Water thyme 21-22

Fish 35-44

Common reed 23-34Saltcedar 25-26Russian olive 27-28Reed canary grass 29-30Yellow �oating heart 31-32Water hyacinth 33-34

Asian carp 35-36White perch 37-38Round goby 39-40Rudd 41-42Snakehead 43-44

Nebraska Aquatic Invasive Species Pocket Guide1

WHAT ARE AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES?Aquatic Invasive Species are nonnative organisms, ei -ther aquatic or terrestrial, introduced into rivers, lakes,

natural predators, so their populations grow unchecked. Once established, these species cause irreparable harm: introducing disease; out-competing native species; alter-ing food chains; changing the physical characteristics of bodies of water; damaging equipment; devastating water-delivery systems; and negatively impacting local and na-tional economies.

PREVENTION REMAINS OUR BEST DEFENSE!

You could be transporting these invasive species. They can hitchhike a ride to other waters on your boat, trailer, live well, boots, �shing equipment, or in your bait bucket. We need to stop the spread of aquatic invasive species that are currently found in Nebraska, and prevent the introduction of new species.

INTRODUCTION

Please prevent introduction or spread in Nebraska waters.

CLEAN. DRAIN. DRY.All recreational equipment.

Nebraska Aquatic Invasive Species Pocket Guide 2

INTRODUCTION

WHAT CAN YOU DO?Follow a general set of procedures every time you come in contact with any body of water – CLEAN, INSPECT, DRY. By doing so, you can protect waters that you use and enjoy from harmful aquatic plants or hitchhikers. Some of these unwanted hitchhikers may be so tiny that you cannot see them, but they can live in mud, dirt, sand, and on plant fragments.

Clean• Before leaving any water, clean your equipment such

,sten ,stao� ,syoced ,srohcna ,sreliart ,srotom ,staob saboots, and waders.

• Remove mud, dirt, scum, etc. since it may contain un -wanted hitchhikers.• Remove plant fragments that may be able to start new plant populations or contain unwanted hitchhikers.

InspectBefore leaving any water, it is important to examine all your equipment, boats, trailers, clothing, boots, buckets, etc. for hitchhikers, mud, and plants.

DryEliminate water from all equipment befor transporting anywhere. Drain the live wells, pull the boat plug, and wipe up any puddles. Much of the recreational equipment used in water contains areas where water can collect and potentially harbor the aquatic hitchhikers. If possible, allow for 5 days of drying time before entering new waters.

• Dispose of bait properly - do not dump into waters.


INTRODUCTION

ADDITIONAL PRECAUTIONS

Do not release or put plants, �sh or animals into a body of water unless they came out of that body of water.

Do not release unused bait into the waters you are �shing.

Be aware of any bait regulations, because in some waters, it is illegal to use live bait.

Please check local regulations:

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission: (402) 471-0641

http://outdoornebraska.ne.gov

Nebraska Invasive Species Project:

http://snr.unl.edu/invasives

REPORTING PROCEEDURE

guide. However, if you think you have found an aquatic invasive species in Nebraska whose location is not already noted in this guide, please report it. It is an important step in managing these species. If possible, please take a photo & document the location details (such as with GPS).

Report Your Finding

Call 1-877-StopANS

(402) 472-3133

Contact the Nebraska Invasive Species Project, Nebraska Game ande Parks Commsission, or


INTRODUCTION

Aquatic Invasive Species in Nebraska

= Present in Nebraska

= Presence is unknown in Nebraska

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This guide includes several invasive species of concern. There are many others throughout the country and around the world that could not be included in this guide, but could be a problem if they made their way into Nebraska.


ALGAE

PHOTO: GRAND T ETON N ATIONAL PARK

PHOTO: GRAND T ETON N ATIONAL PARK

Didymo


ALGAE

COMMON NAMES Didymo, rock snotSCIENTIFIC NAME Didymosphenia geminata

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DESCRIPTION - Freshwater algae that attaches to rocks, plants, or other stable underwater surfaces and can form large ‘blooms.’ Brownish yellow to white in color; colonies or mats of didymo look like sewage sludge or wet tissue paper. It appears slimy, but to the touch it feels like wet wool.

WHAT YOU CAN DO - CLEAN , INSPECT, and DRY all recreational equipment, especially �shing gear.

IMPACTS - ‘Blooms’ out-compete other stream organisms, such as aquaqtic plants, insects, and trout. Its range is expanding and forming growths in streams and the potential impacts on new waters is a concern. Economic impacts include fouling of water pipes and a potential link to a decline in �sheries. The growths

PATHWAY OF INTRODUCTION AND SPREAD - A single cell can multiply to form new colonies. Spreads by attaching to boats, trailers, and other equipment like �shing and diving gear and waders (especially neoprene and felt-soled waters).

LOCATION IN NEBRASKA - Not known to exist in Nebraska.

HABITAT - Shallow waters of freshwater streams and rivers; sunny open areas with stable water �ows of moderate to high current; and below outlets of lakes and reservoirs.

become snagged in �shing gear and make swimming areas unappealing.


AMPHIBIANS

PHOTO: JEFFREY L OVICH/US G S

PHOTO: GARY N AFIS C ALIFORNIA H ER PS.COM

Bullfrog


AMPHIBIANS

COMMON NAMES Bullfrog, North American bullfrogSCIENTIFIC NAME Rana catesbeiana

DESCRIPTION -of skin extending from the eye to the ear. Adults weigh up to one pound and can be over 7 inches in length; tadpoles are large, up to 6 inches long. Color varies from dull green or olive to brown, with dark blotches on the back and legs; underbelly is cream or yellow colored.

HABITAT - Warm lakes, ponds, cattle tanks, bogs, and sluggish portions of streams and rivers.

LOCATION IN NEBRASKA - Found throughout Nebraska.

PATHWAY OF INTRODUCTION AND SPREAD - Spread when they escape from aquaculture farms, ornamental ponds or are released from aquariums.

IMPACTS - Adults have an enormous appetite and can eat any-thing they can catch and swallow, including birds, �sh, crusta-

ceans, bats, snakes, turtles, and other frogs. A high reproduction rate and limited predation allow it to quickly establish itself and dominate a variety of native species causing their decline.

WHAT YOU CAN DO - Do not release an unwanted pet into natu-ral areas. Donate it to a local school, hospital, library, nursing home; give it to family, friends, or neighbors; or ask your local pet store for advice.

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PLANTS

Waterweed

PHOTO BY W. T . H ALLER, U NIVERSITY OF FLORIDA/ IFAS C ENTER FOR A QUATIC AND I NVASIVE PLANTS.

Photo: Ann Murray, University of Florida/IFAS Center For Aquatic and Invasive Plants


PLANTS

COMMON NAMES Brazilian waterweed, Brazilian elodea, waterweed, anacharisSCIENTIFIC NAME Egeria densa

DESCRIPTION - Submerged, perennial, rooted aquatic plant, generally bright green; white �owers emerge during summer and fall.

HABITAT - Shallow waters of freshwater lakes, streams, ponds, and ditches.

PATHWAY OF INTRODUCTION AND SPREAD - Introduced through the dumping of aquarium contents into waterways. It can spread between waters via plant fragments that attach to boats, boat trailers, and other equipment like �shing or diving gear, which can give rise to new plants.

IMPACTS - Forms dense stands over very large areas, restricting water movement, trapping sediment, and causing changes in water quality. Severe infestations may impair recreational uses in -cluding boating, �shing, swimming, and water skiing. It can also infest water intake structures in hydropower reservoirs.

WHAT YOU CAN DO - CLEAN, INSPECT, and DRY all recreational

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equipment. Do not dump your aquarium contents into natural areas, storm drains, or �ush them. Donate them to a localschool, hospital, library, nursing home; give them to family,friends, or neighbors; or ask your local pet store for advice. Otherwise, put unwanted aquarium contents in a plastic bag and throw away in the trash.

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LOCATION IN NEBRASKA - Collected in Hall County in 1943 but has not been found wild since. Not winter hardy.


PLANTS

PHOTO: A NN B OVE ©2002

Curly leaf pondweed Photo: Vic Ramey, University of Florida/IFAS Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants


PLANTS

COMMON NAMES Curly leaf pondweed, curly pondweed, curly-leaved or crispy-leaved pondweedSCIENTIFIC NAME Potamogeton crispus

DESCRIPTION - Submerged, perennial, rooted aquatic plant; green to red brown in color; leaf edges are wavy; �owers between May and June that are red-brown in color.

HABITAT - Freshwater lakes, rivers, streams, ponds, ditches, and canals, but also brackish (salty) waters; rooted in silt or clay, and sometimes gravel or sand.

PATHWAY OF INTRODUCTION AND SPREAD - Introduced in -

plant can spread between waters via plant material such as plant fragments or fruit that are transported with boats, boat trailers, and other equipment like �shing or diving gear, which can give rise to new plants.

IMPACTS - Forms dense stands that cover and dominate large ar-eas, crowding out other species, impeding water �ow, and poten-tially altering oxygen levels with impacts on �sh. Can impact wa-ter recreational activities when colonies restrict access to docks and sport �shing areas and piles of dying curly leaf pondweed cover shorelines.

WHAT YOU CAN DO - CLEAN, INSPECT, and DRY all recreationalequipment. Do not dump unwanted plants into natural areas.Put discarded plants into a plastic bag and throw away in thetrash.

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LOCATION IN NEBRASKA - Large, dense colonies in some small lakes and ponds. Most concentrated in the east portion of the state, but widely scattered.

tentionally when planted for waterfowl and wildlife habitat. The


PLANTS

PHOTO: R ICHARD R . O LD, WWW .XIDSERVICES.COM

PHOTO: A LISON FOX, U NIVERSITY OF FLORIDA, WWW .BU GW OOD.OR G

Eurasian watermilfoil


PLANTS

COMMON NAME Eurasian water-milfoil SCIENTIFIC NAME Myriophyllum spicatum

DESCRIPTION - Submerged, perennial aquatic plant; green feath-er-like leaves and stem brownish-red to light green; �owers be-tween late July and early August with pink petals.

HABITAT - Found in freshwater lakes, ponds, and slow moving areas of rivers and streams, and can tolerate somewhat salty wa-ters.

PATHWAY OF INTRODUCTION AND SPREAD - Introduced through the dumping of aquarium contents into waterways. Mo-torboat tra�c contributes to natural fragmentation and the dis-tribution of fragments throughout lakes. It can spread between waters via plant material that attaches to boats, boat trailers, and other equipment like �shing or diving gear, which can give rise to new plants.

IMPACTS - Competes aggressively to displace and reduce the di-versity of native aquatic plants. Spring growth begins earlier than other aquatic plants and quickly grows to the surface, forming

.stnalp gnidnuorrus eht edahs dna potrevo taht seiponac esnedDense beds restrict swimming, �shing and boating, clog water in-takes and result in decaying mats that foul lakeside beaches.

WHAT YOU CAN DO - CLEAN, INSPECT, and DRY all recre -ational equipment. Do not dump your aquarium contents into natural areas, storm drains, or �ush them. Donate them to a local school, hospital, library, nursing home; give them to fam-ily, friends, or neighbors; or ask your local pet store for advice. Otherwise, put unwanted aquarium contents in a plastic bag and throw away in the trash.

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LOCATION IN NEBRASKA - First collected in Hall and Lancaster counties in 1980 and has since spread to Merrick, Fillmore, Dako- ta, Greeley, and Wheeler counties.


PLANTS

PHOTO BY A NN B OVE, ©2002

PHOTO: M ANDY T U/ T HE N ATURE C ONSERVANCY/GLOBAL I NVASIVE SPECIES D ATABASE

Flowering rush


LOCATION IN NEBRASKA - Identi�ed in Pawnee, Sarpy, and Knox counties.

PLANTS

COMMON NAME Flowering rush SCIENTIFIC NAME Butomus umbellatus

DESCRIPTION - Perennial aquatic plant partly submerged in wa-ter, partly above water surface; green linear leaves up to 4ft long; pink �owers emerge in a whorl on a tall stalk during summer and fall.

HABITAT - Shallow, freshwater lakes, rivers, marshes, ponds, and wet ditches.

PATHWAY OF INTRODUCTION AND SPREAD - Introduced as a garden plant for ornamental purposes. It can spread between wa-ters via dispersal of seeds, root fragments, and bulbils transported with boats, boat trailers, and other equipment like �shing or div-ing gear. Any of this plant material is capable of growing into a new plant.

IMPACTS - Can displace native riparian vegetation. Its very wide range of hardiness makes it capable of being widely invasive. It can hinder recreational uses of water.

WHAT YOU CAN DO - CLEAN, INSPECT, and DRY all recre -ational equipment. Do not dump unwanted plants into natural areas. Put discarded plants into a plastic bag and throw away in the trash.

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PLANTS

PHOTO: JAKE JARVIS WWW .RA W UTAH.COM

PHOTO BY A . M URRAY, U NIVERSITY OF FLORIDA/ IFAS C ENTER FOR A QUATIC AND I NVASIVE PLANTS.

Parrot feather


PLANTS

COMMON NAMES Parrot feather, Brazilian watermilfoil, water-feather SCIENTIFIC NAME Myriophyllum aquaticum

DESCRIPTION - Submerged, perennial aquatic plant; feather-like leaves are bright green in color; �owering occurs in spring and sometimes fall with inconspicuous white �owers.

HABITAT - Slow-moving water in rivers, lakes, ditches and ponds; stems may grow along shorelines in wet soils and can survive pe-riods with lower water levels.

PATHWAY OF INTRODUCTION AND SPREAD - Introduced to the U.S. as an ornamental pond plant and has been dumped into wa-terways. It can spread between waters via plant fragments that attach to boats, boat trailers, and other equipment like �shing or diving gear, which can give rise to new plants.

IMPACTS - Forms dense stands over large areas, shading out oth-er organisms. Interferes with irrigation and drainage canals and restricts recreational activities.

WHAT YOU CAN DO - CLEAN, INSPECT, and DRY all recre-ational equipment. Do not dump unwanted plants into natural areas. Put discarded plants into a plastic bag and throw away in the trash.

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LOCATION IN NEBRASKA - Used widely in garden pools but not winter hardy.


PLANTS

PHOTO: Nebraska Weed Control Association


Purple loosestrife


PLANTS

COMMON NAME Purple Loosestrife SCIENTIFIC NAME Lythrum salicaria L.

DESCRIPTION - State designated noxious weed; pink to purple�owers bloom July-September; leaves are heart-shaped; height to 8 ft.

HABITAT - Marshes, river and creek banks, ditches and wet meadows. Can withstand �ooding up to 18 inches deep.

PATHWAY OF INTRODUCTION - Was introduced from Europe as an ornamental for landscaping. Can spread by resprouting from stem cuttings and from regeneration of pieces of root stock. Seedsare long-lived and can disperse by wind, water, and can be spread by adhering to wildlife, livestock, people, tires, boats.

IMPACTS - Forms dense stands over very large areas, restricting water movement, trapping sediment, and causing changes in wa-ter quality. Severe infestations will dominate wetlands in a singlemonoculture. Adapts to many environments and competes with native vegetation.

WHAT YOU CAN DO - CLEAN, INSPECT, and DRY all recre-ational equipment including shoes/boots, packs, bike tires, etc. Keep dogs and other pets f ree of weed seed. Any hitchhiking seeds should be removed and thrown into trash, noton the ground. Check with local weed and pest organizations tolearn how to deal with the proper removal. Report weed infesta-tions to the local weed district.

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LOCATION IN NEBRASKA - Throughout Nebraska, especially inthe east, along the Platte and Niobrara Rivers.


PLANTS

PHOTO: D ON C . SCHMITZ, FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE C ONSERVATION COMMISSION .

Photo: Vic Ramey, University of Florida/IFAS Center for Aquatic and Invasive PlantsHydrilla


PLANTS

COMMON NAMES Water thyme, hydrilla, water weed, Florida elodea SCIENTIFIC NAME Hydrilla verticillata

DESCRIPTION - Submerged, perennial, rooted aquatic plant; green leaves with serrated edges grow in a circular pattern; �ow-ers during summer and fall that are either whitish to reddish in color or light green with red streaks.

HABITAT - Rivers, lakes, ponds, streams, and wet ditches, in shal -low waters but also at depths greater than 23 ft.; found in freshwa -ter but can tolerate mildly salty water.

PATHWAY OF INTRODUCTION AND SPREAD - Introduced by

plant material such as plant fragments or buds that are transport-ed with boats, boat trailers, and other equipment like �shing or diving gear, which can give rise to new plants. IMPACTS - Forms tall and dense stands in the water column, blocking sunlight penetration, potentially displacing other aquat -ic organisms, and impeding water �ow. Heavy growth commonly obstructs boating, swimming, �shing, and other recreational ac-tivities and also blocks the withdrawal of water used for power generation and agricultural irrigation. WHAT YOU CAN DO - CLEAN, INSPECT, and DRY all recre -ational equipment. Do not dump your aquarium contents into natural areas, storm drains, or �ush them. Donate them to a local school, hospital, library, nursing home; give them to fam-ily, friends, or neighbors; or ask your local pet store for advice. Otherwise, put unwanted aquarium contents in a plastic bag and throw away in the trash.

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dumping of aquariums. The plant can spread between waters via



PLANTS


PHOTO: Karie Decker; Nebraska Invasive Species Project

Common Reed (Phragmites)


PLANTS

COMMON NAME Common reed SCIENTIFIC NAME Phragmites australis

DESCRIPTION - State designated noxious weed; often forms densestands, grow up to 20ft, yellow-green leaves contrast with gray-green foliage of many native grasses; seadheads appear July through September.*Native Phragmites exists in Nebraska; native have loosley attachedleaf sheaths while the non-native species has tightly adheredleaf sheaths.

HABITAT - Marshes, �oodplains, ditches, ponds, waterways.

PATHWAY OF INTRODUCTION - Introduced from Europe for erosioncontrol. Spreads by extensive rhizomes and seed dispersal. Caneasily be inadvertenly be transported by boats and other recreationalequipment. Also spread by seed and by rhizome fragmentation

IMPACTS - Forms dense stands over very large areas, restricting water movement, trapping sediment, and causing changes in wa-ter quality. Severe infestations will dominate waters in a singlemonoculture. Adapts to many environments and competes with native vegetation.


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LOCATION IN NEBRASKA - Found throughout Nebraska., particularly alongthe Platte River


PLANTS



Saltcedar


PLANTS

COMMON NAME Saltcedar SCIENTIFIC NAME Tamarix ramosissima L.

DESCRIPTION - State designated noxious weed; grows up to 20ft;white to pink �owers April to September; leaves are green scales,similar to a juniper.

HABITAT - Salt marches and �ood plains, shore lines of lakes, ponds,rivers, and streams.

PATHWAY OF INTRODUCTION - Introduced from Eurasia for erosioncontrol. Spreads by rhizomes and by wind/water dispersal.

IMPACTS - Pulls heavy amounts of water from soil with long tap-root; competes with native vegetation; pulls salt from the waterand deposits it on soil; standing dry vegetation can increase riskof �re.


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LOCATION IN NEBRASKA - Occurs along the Platte River, especially in the southern and western parts of the state.


PLANTS

PHOTO: David J. Moorhead, University of Georgia

PHOTO:Dave Powell USDA Forest Service

Russian olive


PLANTS

COMMON NAME Russian Olive SCIENTIFIC NAME Elaeagnus angustifolia

DESCRIPTION - Shrub, height to 30 ft; o�-white to yellow �owerclusters in 2’s or 3’s from May to June; silver to olive colored fruit.

HABITAT - Flood plains, open forests, meadows; naturalizes onroadsides.

PATHWAY OF INTRODUCTION - Introduced from Eurasia as an orna-mental. Spreads by rhizomes and by wildlife.

IMPACTS - Fixes nitrogen causing shifts in soil characteristics, competes with native vegetation, fruits are a food source for wildlife which serves to disperse seeds.

WHAT YOU CAN DO - CLEAN, INSPECT, and DRY all recre-ational equipment including shoes/boots, packs, bike tires, etc. Keep dogs and other pets f ree of weed seed. Any h i tch- hiking seeds should be removed and thrown into trash, noton the ground. Check with local weed and pest organizations tolearn how to deal with the proper removal. Report weed infesta-tions to the local weed district.

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LOCATION IN NEBRASKA - Found throughout Nebraska.


PLANTS

PHOTO: David J. Moorhead, University of Georgia

PHOTO:Chris Evans, River to River CWMA

Reed canary grass


PLANTS

COMMON NAME Reed Canary Grass SCIENTIFIC NAME Phalaris arundinacea

DESCRIPTION - Cool-season perennial grass that grows to 6 ft; �at leaf blades; green brown to purple �ower/seed heads Mayto July; hairless stems.

HABITAT - Wetlands, ditches, prairie potholes, banks of streams, ponds, lakes.

PATHWAY OF INTRODUCTION - Introduced from Europe, spreads by seeds and rhizomes.

IMPACTS - Exclude all other vegetation often forming monocul-ture; extremely di�cult to eradicate once established; outcom-petes native vegetation.


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LOCATION IN NEBRASKA - First collected in Sarpy County in 1875. Found throughout Nebraska, especially in the eastern portion of the state.


PLANTS

PHOTO: G.A. Cooper @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

PHOTO: Edward W. Chester, Univ. of Tennessee

Yellow �oating heart


PLANTS

COMMON NAME Yellow �oating heart SCIENTIFIC NAME Nymphoides peltata

DESCRIPTION - Rounded to heart-shaped �oating leaves emerge on long stalks from rooted stems each with several leaves; yellow�ower with �ve petals.

HABITAT - Shallow, slow-moving swamps, rivers, lakes and ponds, in various substrates (sand, mud, gravel, etc.), ranging from the damp mud along the water’s edge to water depths of 4 meters.

IMPACTS - Aggressive plant that is capable of rapid growth and spread; seen as dense �oating mats on the water which restricts light for organisims below; inhibits recreational activities.


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LOCATION IN NEBRASKA - Established in Benson Park Lagoon in Omaha.

PATHWAY OF INTRODUCTION AND SPREAD - Introduced as an ornamental aquatic plant from eastern Asia; propogates by seeds, spreading rhizomes, and fragmentation if stem parts are attached.


PLANTS

PHOTO: Ted D. Center, USDA AgriculturalResearch Service

PHOTO: Kathryn Parys, Louisana State University

Water hyacinth


PLANTS

COMMON NAME Water hyacinth SCIENTIFIC NAME Eichhornia spp.

DESCRIPTION - Free �oating aquatic plant; can grow to 3 ft; lea-ves are oval, thick and waxy; blue-purple �owers on upright spi-kes have six petals.

HABITAT - Lakes, ponds, rivers, marshes, and other types of wet- land habitats.

IMPACTS - Aggressive plant that is capable of rapid growth and spread, seen as dense �oating mats on the water which restricts light for organisims below, inhibits recreational activities.


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LOCATION IN NEBRASKA - Identi�ed in 2007 in Benson Park La- goon in Omaha, but not seen since.

PATHWAY OF INTRODUCTION AND SPREAD - Introduced fromSouth America as an ornamental aquatic plant; reproduces chief-ly by vegetative means.


FISH

BIGHEAD CARP, Photo: Ed Peters

Black Carp

SILVER CARP, Photo: Dick Nelson, NRCS

GRASS CARP, Photo: Steve Schainost


FISH

COMMON NAMES Asian Carp (silver carp, bighead carp, grass carp, black carp, also common carp)

PATHWAY OF I NTRODUCTION AND SPREAD - Personal aquari-um dumping, escape from aquaculture pens, bait bucket release, the live seafood trade, ship ballast water dumping, and other ac-tivities. Fish species are frequently introduced intentionally for recreational sport�shing.

IMPACTS - Most carp are �lter feeders that compete with larval �shes, paddle�sh, bigmouth bu�alo, and freshwater mollusks. Boaters have been injured by jumping silver carp. Black carp con-sume almost exclusively mussels and snails which may further thr-eaten imperiled native freshwater mussels.

WHAT YOU CAN DO - Unused bait or bait packaging should not be released into the water. Put it in a plastic bag and throw away in the trash. Be aware of any bait regulations, because in some waters, it is illegal to use live bait. Do not release or put �sh into a body of water unless they came out of that body of water. Do not dump your aquarium contents into natural areas, storm drains, or �ush them. Donate them, give them away, or ask your local pet store for advice. Otherwise, put unwanted aquarium �sh in a plastic bag and throw away in the trash.

SCIENTIFIC NAMES Hyopophthamichthys molitrisx, Hypohthalm- ichthys nobilis, Ctenopharyngodon idella, Mylopharyngodon piceus

HABITAT - Quiet waters, usually shallow lakes, ponds, rivers impoundments, channels, and sand pits.

LOCATION IN NEBRASKA - Silver and bighead carp found in the Missouri, Platte, and Elkhorn rivers. Grass carp found in the Miss- ouri River. Common carp found throughout Nebraska.

DESCRIPTION - Silver and bighead have scaleless heads with low-set eyes and upturned mouth. Others have darker scales; adults can be > 60 pounds.

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FISH

PHOTO: Douglas Facey nas.er.usgs.gov

PHOTO: Kansas Depatrment of Wildlife and Parks

White Perch


FISH

COMMON NAME White perch

PATHWAY OF INTRODUCTION - Popular bait �sh. Personal aquari-um dumping, escape from aquaculture pens, bait bucket release, the live seafood trade, ship ballast water dumping, and other ac-tivities. Fish species are frequently introduced intentionally for recreational sport�shing.

IMPACTS - Outcompete native �shes for food; feed heavily onbait�sh used by other species; have been associated with declinesin walleye and white bass. Can hybridize with white bass.

WHAT YOU CAN DO- Unused bait or bait packaging should not

be released into the water. Put it in a plastic bag and throw away in the trash. Be aware of any bait regulations, because in some waters, it is illegal to use live bait. Do not release or put �sh into a body of water unless they came out of that body of water. Do not dump your aquarium contents into natural areas, storm drains, or �ush them. Donate them, give them away, or ask your local pet store for advice. Otherwise, put unwanted aquarium �sh in a plastic bag and throw away in the trash.

SCIENTIFIC NAME Morone americana

HABITAT - Common in shallow portions of inland lakes, pondsand rivers.

LOCATION IN NEBRASKA - Found in the Platte River as far as North Platte and in the Salt Creek watershed, Branched Oak Lake & others.

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DESCRIPTION - Variable coloring, generally silvery-green on sides, no stripes or lines; usually less than 10 inches long; closely resem- bles white bass, spiny and soft dorsal �n connected in white perch but not in white bass.


FISH

PHOTO: © Dave Jude, Center for Great Lakes Aquatic Sciences

PHOTO: E RIC E N G BRETSON - US FISH & WILDLIFE SERVICE

Round Goby


FISH

COMMON NAME Round goby

PATHWAY OF INTRODUCTION - Personal aquarium dumping,escape from aquaculture pens, bait bucket release, live seafood trade, ship ballast water dumping, and other activities. Fish spec-ies are frequently introduced intentionally for recreational sport-�shing.

IMPACTS - Outcompete native �shes for food, prey on darters,sculpin, eggs/fry of lake trout and sturgeon. Agressive behavior dr-ives �sh from spawning areas.


SCIENTIFIC NAME Neogobius melanostomus

HABITAT - Prefer rock, sand, gravel, and hide in crevices; can toler-ate wide temperature and oxygen ranges; can live in slightly bra-ckish or low quality water; noctornal feeders.


DESCRIPTION - Adults 10-25 cm; gray-green and brown mark-ings; greenish dorsal �n lacks spines; black spot on front dorsal �n. From Black and Caspian Seas.

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FISH

Rudd


FISH

COMMON NAME Rudd

PATHWAY OF INTRODUCTION - Popular bait �sh; personalaquarium dumping, escape from aquaculture pens, bait bucketrelease, live seafood trade, ship ballast water dumping, and otheractivities. Fish species are frequently introduced intentionally for recreational sport�shing.

IMPACTS - Outcompete native �shes for food, can also feed onvegetation, tolerates eutrophic or polluted waters. Can hybridizewith native golden shiner.


SCIENTIFIC NAME Scardinius erythrophthalmus

HABITAT - Found in lakes, rivers, marshland and ponds with little current and prefer large weed beds; usually freshwater but can acc-limate to brackish conditions. Native to Eurasia.

LOCATION IN NEBRASKA - Identi�ed in Harlan, Enders, McCon-aughy, Calamus, Sherman, Box Butte and Johnson Reservoirs.

DESCRIPTION - Similar to golden shiner; dark grey back, silver sides, blood red �ns (shiner �ns are yellow); up to 14 inches; fork-ed tail.

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FISH

Photo: Southeast Ecological Science Center, USGS

Photo: Maryland Department of Natural ResourcesSnakehead


FISH

COMMON NAME Snakehead

PATHWAY OF INTRODUCTION - Previously popular pet; personalaquarium dumping, escape from aquaculture pens, bait bucket release, live seafood trade, ship ballast water dumping, and otheractivities. Fish species are frequently introduced intentionally for recreational sport�shing.

IMPACTS - Can devastate populations of native �sh and wildlife. At all stages of their lives will compete with native �sh for food. Juven-iles eat zooplankton, insects, crustaceans, and young �sh. Adults arevoracious predators, eat other �sh, crustaceans, reptiles, birds andand mammals.


SCIENTIFIC NAME Chana spp.

HABITAT - Survives in a wide range of habitats including wetlands, vegetated ponds, swamps, and slow-moving streams with water temperatures ranging from 32ºF to 86ºF.


DESCRIPTION - Long, thin body up to 47 inches; �attened head; adults dark brown with dark blotches, young are lighter in color; scaled, snake-like head with sharp teeth. Air bladder acts as lungs; can live out of water for up to 4 days.

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INVERTEBRATES - BIVALVES

PHOTO: US G S

PHOTO: JASON GOECKLER , K ANSAS WILDLIFE AND PARKS

Asian clam



COMMON NAMES Asian clam, Asiatic clam, prosperity clam SCIENTIFIC NAME Corbicula �uminea

DESCRIPTION - Small freshwater clam that is triangular in shape; color is yellowish-to blackish-brown.

HABITAT - Found in fresh water at the sediment surface or slight-ly buried; prefers �ne clean sand, clay, and coarse sand, although this species may be found on most any underwater surface.

PATHWAY OF INTRODUCTION AND SPREAD - Introduced into the U.S. as a food item for humans. Spread by the aquaculture in -dustry and aquarium dumping. Bait buckets, live wells, bilge wa -ter, boat hulls/motors/trailers, and other equipment like �shing gear or diving equipment, could potentially be contaminated with clams or free-�oating larvae and be transported between waters.

IMPACTS - Filters suspended matter from the water column, which signi�cantly increases water clarity, leads to excessive plant growth and alters lake nutrient regimes. It may compete with na-

-fere with irrigation systems and canals, and block water �ow through industrial raw water intake pipes.

WHAT YOU CAN DO - CLEAN, INSPECT and DRY all recre -ational equipment. Do not dump your aquarium contents into natural areas, storm drains, or �ush them. Donate them to a local school, hospital, library, nursing home; give them to fam-ily, friends, or neighbors; or ask your local pet store for advice. Otherwise, put unwanted aquarium contents in a plastic bag and throw away in the trash.

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LOCATION IN NEBRASKA - Found in the Platte River to the Wyo- ming border and in the Missouri River.

tive mollusks for food and habitat. The clam can infest and inter



PHOTO: U NITED STATES BUREAU OF R ECLAMATION

PHOTO: M YRIAH R ICHERSON, US G SPHOTO: M ICHI G AN SEA GRANTWWW .MISEA G RANT.UMICH.EDU

SIDE VIEW

No pronounced ridge

BOTTOM VIEW

Bilaterally asymmetrical; curved mid-ventral line

Few or no zigzagged stripes

Convex ventral surface

Quagga mussel



COMMON NAME Quagga Mussel SCIENTIFIC NAME Dreissena rostriformis bugensis

DESCRIPTION - Small, variably striped, freshwater mussel up to 3 cm long; color is usually pale and may have colored bands, bars, or few to no zigzagged stripes.

HABITAT - Found in freshwater lakes, reservoirs, ponds, and slow-moving or sluggish rivers; attaches to hard surfaces such as rocks, docks, cement, wood, and aquatic vegetation or may par-tially bury itself into soft sediments.

PATHWAY OF INTRODUCTION AND SPREAD - Introduced to the U.S. by ballast water carried by commercial vessels and poten-tially on fouled ship hulls. Larval stage and adult mussels spread between waters when they are transported in bait buckets, live wells and bilge water or attached to boat hulls/motors/trailers and other equipment like �shing or diving gear or on attached aquatic plants. Adult quagga mussels can survive for up to 22 days out of water with the right conditions.

IMPACTS - Forms colonies in great numbers and �lters large

pply for native organisms and increases water clarity, which changes the makeup of plants and other organisms, including

intake pipes causing signi�cant cost and safety concerns to indus-try and municipal water users.

WHAT YOU CAN DO - CLEAN, INSPECT and DRY all recre -ational equipment.

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quantities of plankton from the water. This decreases the food su-

�sh. These mussels pollute swimming areas with sharp shells and can cause damage to boating equipment. They can damage water



PHOTO: L AKE E RIE B AY C ITY T IMES (COURTESY GREAT L AKES E NVIRONMENTAL R ESEARCH L AB).

PHOTO: M YRIAH R ICHERSON, US G SPHOTO: M ICHI G AN SEA GRANTWWW .MISEA G RANT.UMICH.EDU

SIDE VIEW BOTTOM VIEW

Zigzagged stripes

Flat ventral surface

Pronounced ridge

Bilaterally symmetrical;straight mid-ventral line

Zebra mussel


LOCATION IN NEBRASKA - Prior infestation at Lake O�ut, O�ut Air Force Base; has since been eradicated.


COMMON NAME Zebra MusselSCIENTIFIC NAME Dreissena polymorpha

DESCRIPTION - Small, striped, strongly ridged, freshwater mus-sel usually 2-2½ cm in length; color is black or brown with vari -able white to yellow striped or zigzagged patterns.

HABITAT - Found in freshwater lakes, rivers, reservoirs, and ponds; attach to submerged hard surfaces such as rocks, docks, cement, wood, and aquatic plants.

PATHWAY OF INTRODUCTION AND SPREAD - Introduced to the U.S. by ballast water carried by commercial shipping vessels and potentially on fouled ship hulls. Larval stage and adult mus -sels can spread between waters when they are transported in bait buckets, live wells and bilge water, attached to boat hulls/motors/trailers and other equipment like �shing or diving gear, or on at-tached aquatic plants. Adult zebra mussels can survive for up to 22 days out of water with the right conditions.

IMPACTS - Forms colonies in great numbers and �lters large

food supply for native organisms and increases water clarity, which changes the makeup of plants and other organisms, includ -

water intake pipes causing signi�cant cost and safety concerns to industry and municipal water users.

WHAT YOU CAN DO - CLEAN, INSPECT and DRY all recre -ational equipment.

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quantities of plankton from the water column. This decreases the

ing �sh. These mussels pollute swimming areas with sharp shells and can cause damage to boating equipment. They can damage


INVERTEBRATES - CRUSTACEANS

PHOTO: JEFF GUNDERSON, M INNESOTA SEA GRANT

Rusty Cray�sh


INVERTEBRATES - CRUSTACEANS

COMMON NAME Rusty cray�sh SCIENTIFIC NAME Orconectes rusticus

DESCRIPTION - Large (up to 4 inches), aggressive, cray�sh whose color is variable but consistently has large, rust-colored spots on either side of the shell and black bands on the claw tips.

HABITAT - Found in freshwater lakes, rivers, and streams with rock, gravel, clay, or silt bottoms. Prefer deep pools and fast cur-rents with cover from predators, such as rocks, logs, and debris.

PATHWAY OF INTRODUCTION AND SPREAD - Introduction via aquarium dumping; release or escape of unused cray�sh from bait buckets and �shing lines; releases of those used as classroom sci-ence specimens.

IMPACTS - Eats and damages stands of aquatic plants, reducing food sources and aquatic habitat for aquatic invertebrates and �sh. Often out-competes native cray�sh species for food and habitat and negatively impacts �sh populations through competi -tion for food and predation on �sh eggs. With their strong claws and aggressive nature, they can also pose a menace to swimmers.

WHAT YOU CAN DO - CLEAN, INSPECT, and DRY all recre -ational equipment. Unused bait should not be released into the water. Put it in a plastic bag and throw away in the trash. Be aware of any bait regulations, because in some waters, it is illegal to use live bait. Do not dump your aquarium contents into natural ar -eas, storm drains, or �ush them. Donate them to a local school, hospital, library, nursing home; give them to family, friends, or neighbors; or ask your local pet store for advice. Otherwise, put unwanted contents in a plastic bag and throw away in the trash.

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LOCATION IN NEBRASKA - Found in Benson Park Lake in Omaha.


INVERTEBRATES - SNAILS

PHOTO: US G S

PHOTO: D AVE B RITTON, U.S. F ISH & WILDLIFE SERVICE

Chinese mysterysnail



COMMON NAMES Chinese mystery snail, Oriental mystery snail, Asian apple snail, Chinese vivipara, rice snailSCIENTIFIC NAME Cipangopaludina chinensis

DESCRIPTION - Freshwater snail that has an operculum that acts as a lid or trapdoor and seals the shell’s opening; typically cam-ou�ages itself with a dark green covering similar to moss; color is brownish to olive-green.

HABITAT - Found in shallow, quiet waters of ponds, marshes, lakes, canals, and slow-moving rivers with some vegetation and soft, muddy or sandy substrate.

PATHWAY OF INTRODUCTION AND SPREAD - Introduced through aquarium dumping and accidental release from aqua -culture farms. Spread if transported via bait buckets, live wells, bilge water, boat hulls/motors/trailers, and other equipment like �shing or scuba gear.

IMPACTS - Can compete with native snail species. Potential vec-

clog screens of water intake pipes. WHAT YOU CAN DO - CLEAN, INSPECT, and DRY all recre -ational equipment. Unused bait or bait packaging should not be released into the water. Put it in a plastic bag and throw away in the trash. Be aware of any bait regulations, because in some waters, it is illegal to use live bait. Do not dump your aquarium contents into natural areas, storm drains, or �ush them. Donate them to a local school, hospital, library, nursing home; give them to family, friends, or neighbors; or ask your local pet store for ad -vice. Otherwise, put unwanted aquarium contents in a plastic bag and throw away in the trash.

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LOCATION IN NEBRASKA - Identi�ed in Biology Pond in Crete, Oak Lake in Lincoln, and the Missouri River near Sioux City.

tors for the transmission of parasites and diseases. Their shells can



PHOTO: M IKE GAN G LOFF/ US G S

PHOTO: US G S. FISC - C ENTER FOR A QUATIC R ESOURCE STUDIES

New Zealand mudsnail



COMMON NAMES New Zealand mudsnail, Jenkins’ spire snail SCIENTIFIC NAME Potamopyrgus antipodarum

DESCRIPTION - Small, slender, freshwater snail with an opercu-lum that acts as a lid or trapdoor and seals the shell’s opening; color is usually horn-colored but can range from light to dark brown.

HABITAT - Prefers disturbed watersheds, fresh and saltwater lakes, rivers, and slow-moving streams on hard or woody debris, rock and gravel surfaces, and vegetation in areas with high silt and organic matter. Tolerates temperatures from near freezing up to 82ºF, so geothermally in�uenced areas may provide good habitat.


PATHWAY OF INTRODUCTION AND SPREAD - Introduced through ballast water and in the water of live game �sh shipped from other infested waters. Spread via bait buckets, live wells, bilge water, and boat hulls/motors/trailers. Recreational equip -ment and shoes and clothing of bathers in thermal areas can

in new waters with the introduction of a single individual.

IMPACTS - Populations can reach high densities that dominate the food source, competing with native snails. Can displace native species that other species, including �sh, depend on for food.

WHAT YOU CAN DO - CLEAN, INSPECT, and DRY all recre -ational equipment.

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spread snails to new waters. This species can become established


PATHOGENS

PHOTO: D ONALD H . C AM PBELL, US G S

PHOTO: T ROUT U NLIMITED - WHIRLING D ISEASE FOUNDATION

PHOTO: M OHAMMED FAISAL/ US G S

B OREAL TOAD BEING TESTED AND MONITORED FOR CHYTRID F U NG U S

V HS I NFECTED F ISH WHIRLING D ISEASE I NFECTED JUVENILE F ISH


PATHOGENS

A pathogen is a microscopic organism, such as a bacteria, fungus, parasite, or virus that can be highly contagious and may cause disease and/or death.

WHAT YOU CAN DO - CLEAN, INSPECT, and DRY all recre -ational and scienti�c equipment. Do not release or put �sh or oth-er animals into a body of water unless they came out of that body

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COMMON NAMES Chytrid fungus, chytridSCIENTIFIC NAME Batrachochytrium dendrobatidisDESCRIPTION - Fungal skin disease that infects amphibians, including frogs, toads, and salamanders.LOCATION IN NEBRASKA - Not known to exist in Nebraska.

COMMON NAME Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia (VHS)DESCRIPTION - Virus that infects �sh, including cutthroat trout.LOCATION IN NEBRASKA - Not known to exist in Nebraska.More Information: http://biology.usgs.gov/faer/vhs.html

COMMON NAME Whirling diseaseSCIENTIFIC NAME Myxobolus cerebralisDESCRIPTION - Parasite that infects �sh in the trout and salmon families.LOCATION IN NEBRASKA - Not known to exist in Nebraska.

of water. Throw away �sh parts and unused bait in a plastic bag.

COMMON NAME Largemouth Bass VirusDESCRIPTION - A virus that attacks the swim bladder, sometimes causing bass to lose their equilibrium and appear bloated.LOCATION IN NEBRASKA - Not known to exist in Nebraska.

COMMON NAME HeterosporosisDESCRIPTION - A protozoan that infects and degrades muscle of yellow perch and other species.LOCATION IN NEBRASKA - Not known to exist in Nebraska.

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SIMPLE THINGS YOU CAN DO!

ANGLERS

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-

-

DOG OWNERS

VISITORS

Remove all mud and aquatic plants from your vehicle, boat, anchor, trailer and axles, waders, boots, and �shing gear be-fore departing a �shing access site.

Drain all water from your boat and equipment - including coolers, buckets, and live wells - before departing a �shing access site or boat dock.

Clean and dry your boat and equipment between trips. Pay particular attention to cleaning �shing equipment when moving from one location to another, even within the same watershed or on the same river. Dry boats and gear in be-tween trips.

Be aware of any bait regulations, because in some waters, it is illegal to use live bait.

Do not release or put �sh into a body of water unless they came out of that body of water.

Check dog’s body including feet, coat, and collar for any vis-ible mud, plants, or animals and remove.

Wash your dog with warm, clean water and brush its coat.

If you have entered the water in your travels, be sure to clean anything that came in contact with that water including shoes, boots, waders, boats, trailers, dogs, etc.

Follow these guidelines while traveling so that you do not in-advertently introduce a hitchhiker to the areas you visit.


SIMPLE THINGS YOU CAN DO!

AQUARIUM OWNERS• Remove all mud and aquatic plants from your vehicle, bo

ay particular attention to cleaning � shing equipment when mov-ing from one location to another, even within the same watershed or on the same river. Dry boats and gear in between trips.• Be aware of any bait regulations, because in some wa-ters, it is illegal to use live bait.• Do not release or put � sh into a body of water unless t

BOATERS • Check dog’s body including feet, coat, and collar for a

HUNTERS

Do not dump your aquarium contents into natural areas, storm drains, or � ush them.

Donate them to a public place, give them away, or ask your local pet store for advice. If not, put unwanted aquarium contents in a plastic bag and throw away in the trash.

Do not even empty the water from your aquarium or � sh tank into a water body.

All types of boats (sea kayaks, whitewater kayaks, motor boats, canoes, dories or rafts) can harbor aquatic hitchhikers.

Remove all mud and vegetation from your vessel, trailer, motor, and equipment when moving between waters.

Drain and clean your live well, bait containers, and engine cooling system after every use.

Wash all boats, trailers, and equipment in between trips with high-pressure hot water. Pay particular attention to cleaning boats and equipment when moving from one location to another, even within the same watershed or on the same river. Dry boats and gear in between trips.

In most areas in Nebraska, it is illegal to move live �sh, inverte-brates, or plants from one water to another without authorization.

Clean equipment such as boats, trailers, waders, and decoys, as well as horses and dogs.

Inspect and remove mud, aquatic plants and animals from any-thing that came in contact with water.

Eliminate water from decoys, boat, motor, etc.

CLEAN INSPECT

DRY

but they could be giving some unwanted

hitchhikers a ride!

They may look innocent,

nebraska aquatic invasive species pocket guide

Documents

invasive plantshttp

original guide

cover photosthis guide

grant oregon http

parks commission http

grant minnesota

grant michigan

quagga mussel