For decorative purposes.

RIPPLE invasive fish brochure

DOWNLOAD

August 11, 2022 - Paige Filice<filicepa@msu.edu>, Michigan State University Extension

Identifying fish can be difficult, especially when they are being purchased from a wholesaler or local retailer. This brochure highlights some of Michigan’s regulated fish species that are prohibited or restricted from sale due to their invasive potential. 

Exotic fish are popular pets in aquariums and water gardens. Well-meaning people sometimes release unwanted pet fish into waterbodies thinking they are doing the right thing, but they can become invasive and detrimental to our environment. Some outcompete our native fish for food and habitat. Released pets can also introduce harmful pathogens and diseases to our native wildlife. Additionally, it is not humane to release unwanted fish in Michigan waterways. Pet fish may lack the necessary skills to survive in the wild or may not be able to tolerate Michigan’s climate.

If you have an unwanted pet fish, do not release it into Michigan waterways. Give or trade with a local retailer or other hobbyist. Check out the Reduce Invasive Pet and Plant Escapes (RIPPLE) website to learn more and to order printed copies of this brochure.

DOWNLOAD FILE

Authors

You Might Also Be Interested In

Accessibility Questions:

For questions about accessibility and/or if you need additional accommodations for a specific document, please send an email to ANR Communications & Marketing at anrcommunications@anr.msu.edu.

Tag List
  • clean boats clean waters,
  • conservation stewards program,
  • fisheries & wildlife,
  • inland lakes,
  • invasive species,
  • lakes streams & watersheds,
  • msu extension,
  • natural resources,
  • ripple
Michigan State University
  • Spartans Will.
  • © Michigan State University

MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer, committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce and inclusive culture that encourages all people to reach their full potential.

Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Quentin Tyler, Director, MSU Extension, East Lansing, MI 48824. This information is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.

The 4-H Name and Emblem have special protections from Congress, protected by code 18 USC 707.

We comply with the Federal Trade Commission 1998 Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).