Snakehead fish discovered in Georgia

https://www.foxnews.com/science/snakehead-fish-discovered-georgia?fbclid=IwAR0Yh_16dzy5QtTEM9T6eEY8L9qBg-rHau6XIjwaomj7Dmyek2YY0uzCg_g         Snakehead fish discovered in Georgia, sparks warning from wildlife officials: 'Kill it immediately'
An invasive fish species has been spotted in Georgia — and wildlife officials want anyone who encounters it to "immediately" kill the animal, which can survive on both land and in water.
The northern snakehead, native to the Yangtze River basin located in China, was discovered in a Gwinnett County pond earlier this month, according to the state's Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which noted the creatures have been reported in 14 U.S. states.
MADRID TO CULL NEARLY 12,000 INVASIVE PARAKEETS OVER THREATS TO ENVIRONMENT, PUBLIC SAFETY
It's unclear how the fish ended up in the pond, but a blog post from the department explains invasive species "are often introduced throughout unauthorized release."
Georgia wildlife officials urge anyone who spots northern snakeheads to "kill it immediately and freeze it."
Georgia wildlife officials urge anyone who spots northern snakeheads to "kill it immediately and freeze it."
(Georgia Department of Natural Resources)
The fish, which are long and thin with a dark appearance and a long dorsal fin that runs along its back, can grow up to three feet long. They are able to "breathe air allowing them to survive on land and in low oxygenated systems."
THE VORACIOUS AND INVASIVE LIONFISH IS TAKING OVER THE ATLANTIC — HERE'S WHY
Because northern snakeheads can negatively impact native species by competing for the same resources, wildlife officials encourage anyone who comes across the fish to "kill it immediately and freeze it."
Northern snakeheads can grow up to three feet long, and are long, thin and dark.
Northern snakeheads can grow up to three feet long, and are long, thin and dark. (U.S. Geological Survey Archive)
The department urges people to photograph the fish, including some close-up shots "of its mouth, fins and tail." Remember where and when you found it and immediately report it to the office's Wildlife Resources Division Fisheries Office.

Popular Posts