Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS)

Invasive species like the sea lamprey can cause significant environmental and economic damage.

Aquatic Invasive Species…

• Are non-native plants, animals, and pathogens
• Live primarily in water
• Thrive in a new environment
• Cause economic loss, environmental damage, and harm to human health

Thanks to the statewide cooperation of citizens, recreationalists, tourism industries, businesses, and agencies, less than 1% of Minnesota’s waters are infested with AIS like zebra mussels and Eurasian watermilfoil. With 15,000 lakes, thousands of miles of rivers and streams, and acres of wetlands to protect, Minnesotans recognize the importance of acting to prevent and slow the spread of the state’s current and potential AIS.

Of the 73 non-native species that have been detected in Lake Superior, 37% (27) are invasive.

• 24 are federal or state (Minnesota prohibited or regulated) invasive species
• 3 are diseases
• Sea Lamprey, which were able to swim into the upper Great Lakes when the Welland Canal was deepened in 1919, have been the most costly and damaging

Many Great Lakes AIS were unintentionally released, arriving in ballast water and through a variety of other human activities. Freed from the predators, parasites, pathogens, and competitors of their natural range, AIS can eclipse native species with their typically high rates of survival, reproduction, and spread. Eradication is usually very costly and often not feasible.

Public awareness and actions are essential to preventing AIS spread and reducing harm. Through research and pubic education, Minnesota Sea Grant is working to curtail the spread of AIS and manage existing invaders more effectively.