Live Trade of Asian Carps in Canada

Asian carps have been identified as a threat to Canadian waters, especially to the Great Lakes.  While several pathways exist for entry to Canadian waters, the trade of live Asian carps has been identified as a pathway of concern for Canadian waters.  Import into the province of Ontario of Grass Carp and Bighead Carp for the purpose of the live food trade in the Greater Toronto Area is the primary entry point in Canada.  However, the possession and sale of live Asian carps has been illegal in the province since 2004.  Enforcement activities, such as live market searches and border inspections, occur to protect the Canadian waters of the Great Lakes from the introduction of Asian carps from this pathway.   An overview of the Canadian import of Asian carps, as well as a summary of enforcement activities conducted in the province will be provided.