Using New Technologies to Develop Controls Specific to Filter-Feeding Aquatic Invasive Species

The success of the sea lamprey control program can be attributed to several factors including differential toxicity of lampricides and a vulnerable lifestage which creates an efficient target.   Since the introduction of the zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) in the mid 1980’s and recent range expansions of the quaqqa mussel (Dreissena bugensis) and Asian carps (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis, Hypophthalmichthys molitrix), interest has intensified for development of selective chemical control tools to manage these invasive species.  Four chemicals are currently registered for control of aquatic species and with the exception of sea lamprey, they impart very little to no selective toxicity.

Coupling species specific characteristics including differences in gastrointestinal enzymes and filtering characteristics with advancements in particle composition and coating technology has provided an opportunity to develop orally delivered selective control agents for filter feeding aquatic nuisance species using previously unselective or new biocides. 

The USGS’ Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center has focused on exploiting unique species characteristics of dreissenid mussels and Asian carps to engineer toxicant laden orally delivered biocide particles similar to particles developed to successfully deliver probiotics and vaccines to humans and fish.   These techniques potentially have broad application for researchers to develop selective control agents for other nuisance species.