What are exotic species? Exotic species are species that are
not native to the environment. They can be plants, fish, or animals. The reason
they are dangerous is that they can invade a native environment and take over
because the native species, whether plant, fish, or mammal, do not have the
means to defend themselves against the exotic introduced species.
One exotic species, that is not really so exotic, but comes
under the heading of harmful or potentially harmful and can overtake an
environment and affect the ecosystem is the common goldfish. Goldfish are
plentiful. They are easily obtained. And they may be dumped into a local pond
or lake where they can grow and crowd out native species as they eat food meant
for the native species. Another fairly well-known example is how pythons have
been taking over the Everglades in Florida, even able to consume alligators.
Potentially harmful plants include water hyacinths, giant
salvinia, and hydrilla. Exotic fish include Asian carp which go by the names of
grass, silver, and bighead; tilapia, and zebra mussels. Harmful plants and
animals are regulated by strict state laws. Permits are required to transport
them. There are fines if these species are found. There are some permits given
to zoologists or for research purposes, but outside of that there are strict
controls against exotic and potentially harmful species. Texas alone has a 370
page book that presents information on the various species and similar species.
If you do a Google search for "exotic species regulated", in
conjunction with a specific state's name, such as "Texas exotic species
regulated", you will find the different states have information and links
specific to their state regulations. The point is, the issue of exotic species
and dangerous species is an important topic.
For example, in the case of the zebra mussel, it is required
that boats be drained of water as they leave or approach public fresh water.
Plus, these mussels cannot be found clinging to the vessel. Other regulations
cover the clinging of vegetation to the boat, or regulations on live bait. The
only way to know the regulations for the particular state where you live or
vacation is to search out the regulations of that particular state. People in
tournaments are covered by special rules and documentation that the tournament
organizers possess.
Another form of regulation concerns transporting live,
non-game fish in specific geographic locations. In other words, certain
geographical locations have specific rules covering only them. These will be
better known by the locals, but if you are going into a certain location, it is
worth searching out these regulations so as not to be in violation. The purpose
of these regulations is to keep the native species alive and well, and keep the
non-native species from overcoming the native species and destroying the
natural ecosystem.