Aquatic Invasive Species in British Columbia's Lakes and Streams; Who Are They and What Is Being Done?

Aquatic invasive species pose a major risk to freshwater ecosystems and can seriously impact its users. British Columbia has still relatively low prevalence of aquatic species, however a recent first effort to summarize the available knowledge for the province provided a first opportunity to identify all the species and their current known distribution. There are currently 98 plants (either aquatic or with demonstrated impacts on the aquatic environment), 24 fish, 5 amphibians, 3 invertebrates 2 turtles and one freshwater algae known to be introduced to BC. The assembled database allows for a geospatial analysis of species introductions and its association with human population centres. The majority of introductions are closely associated with human population centres, however some species show interesting departures from this trend. The temporal analysis of first report also show a continuous increase in the rate of introduction. Introduction vectors for a number of these species are well documented, including intentional and illegal stocking, aquaculture escapes, aquarium releases, boat trailers, fishing gear and waders, horticulture and secondary natural spread from primary introductions. A particular concern is the recent illegal introduction of yellow perch and bass to a number of lakes in the Fraser drainage. One group of lakes was the focus of a 5 year eradication project using rotenone and the details will be discussed. Other populations are too widespread to be eradicated and potential control methods are being explored.