Photos by Paul Skawinski and Schmeeckle Reserve, text source Schmeeckle Reserve, article by Barbara Dixson
Who would think that a tiny creature this cute could wreak havoc? But that seems to be the job description of the round goby, an invasive species recently found in Lake Joanis. Fortunately, the UWSP College of Natural Resources faculty and staff, in collaboration with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, are up to the challenge. They are bringing all their knowledge and skill to bear, and using this moment as a learning opportunity for UWSP students.
Below: The preferred habitat of the round goby.
“This is a serious invasive species, and we need to understand what this detection means for Lake Joanis,” said Brian Sloss, dean of the College of Natural Resources. “At the same time, it provides a real-world learning opportunity for our students. They can be involved in the research and monitoring process and see firsthand how natural resource professionals respond to an emerging issue. We also have an opportunity to use this to educate our broader community about invasive species and the steps all of us can take to protect Wisconsin’s waters.”
Here’s what we in the community can do to prevent this sort of lake trouble:
- Inspect boats, trailers, fishing equipment, and other gear for plants, animals, and mud before leaving the water.
- Remove all attached plants, animals, and mud.
- Drain water from boats, motors, live wells, bait buckets, and other equipment.
- Never move live fish or other aquatic organisms from one waterbody to another.
- Never release unused bait into the water.
- Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash or as directed by local regulations.
- Dry equipment thoroughly before using it in another waterbody.
The problem with these cute little fellows is that they are greedy and pushy. They want to occupy ALL the habitat, eat the eggs and little ones of other fish, and stay forever. They are definitely unwelcome newcomers!