Aquatic Invasive Species Early Detection and Monitoring Program for Lake Michigan: A Summary

Session: 09. - Modeling, Detecting, and Managing Rarity

Cari-Ann Hayer, US Fish and Wildlife Service, [email protected]

Abstract

Recently, prevention and early detection of new nonnative species in the Great Lakes has become a priority. Consequently, the aquatic invasive species (AIS) program at the Green Bay Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office performed monitoring and early detection activities throughout Lake Michigan during 2013 - 2017 with objectives to identify new species before AIS become established or have time to spread.  Sampling focused on detection of bigheaded carps in tributaries using environmental DNA (eDNA) and monitoring fish and benthic macroinvertebrate communities at five hotspot locations using numerous passive and active gears on Lake Michigan. In 2016 and 2017, we found no eDNA evidence of bighead or silver Carp presence in nine tributaries of Lake Michigan and no new non-native fish or benthic macroinvertebrates were detected.  Fish communities at the five hotspot locations were effectively sampled using nighttime boat electrofishing, experimental gill nets, and paired modified fyke nets that when combined, provided a representative sample of the fish community at each location.  Gears and methods for sampling fish were improved during 2017 through an adaptive management approach, allowing for reduced effort with similar, or better, effectiveness compared to previous years (2013 – 2016). 

1. Keyword
biological invasions

2. Keyword
biomonitoring

3. Keyword
exotic species

4. Additional Keyword
Rare species