Identification Booklet of Freshwater Invasive Species in Quebec

Table of contents:

• Aquatic invaders
• Pathways of invasion
• Threats to the environment, the economy and society
• Focus on an invader
• What you can do

• What to do if you find aquatic invasive species?

Aquatic invaders

To stop the proliferation of aquatic invasive species and thus protect our ecosystems, it is essential that all users of water bodies be on the lookout. The purpose of this booklet is to raise awareness about several species that have invaded freshwater habitats in Quebec. It also contains species that are not yet present, but could invade our lakes and rivers. It will help you recognize them and tell you what to do to prevent their spread and settlement in our water bodies.

Like everywhere else in the world, Quebec is struggling with animal and plant species that invade our fresh waters. Native to Asia, Europe, Africa, or even America, they harm native species (species originally from the region) and often, in the absence of natural predators, grow and multiply to the point where it becomes impossible to control and get rid of them. This booklet focuses on invasive animal species.

Pathways of invasion

It is often through human intervention that species leave their original environment to invade new ones. Many pathways contribute to the introduction and spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS) in our waters:

• ballast waters from ocean-going vessels
• boats and equipment associated with watersports and recreational fishing
• aquaculture, aquarium trade (animal and plants in aquariums) and other commercial sales of live species resulting in accidental or intentional introductions

Once introduced, species can become established and spread naturally:

• by migration
• with currents
• because of floods caused by rains
• by clinging to aquatic fauna and flora

Threats to the environment, the economy and society

Aquatic invasive species have impacts on native species because they:

• have few or no natural predators
• compete with native species for food and space, potentially causing them to become extinct
• contribute to the degradation of ecosystems by affecting water quality, and by transporting diseases or parasites

Some invasive species have serious economic impacts because they affect:

• recreational, commercial and indigenous fishing, as well as aquaculture, causing a decline in native species of interest
• infrastructures by causing damages resulting in high costs associated with their control, and with cleaning and repair of affected facilities (irrigation canals, water treatment plants, power plants)

Spiny water fleas