Understanding the Threat of Northern Snakehead Fish to Ecosystems
'Frankenfish' are plaguing ecosystems. What to know about the species

Image: Usa Today
The northern snakehead fish, known as 'Frankenfish,' is an invasive species threatening ecosystems along the East Coast of the United States. Native to Asia, these fish can breathe air and survive on land, posing risks to native fish populations and recreational fishing.
- 01Northern snakehead fish are invasive predators that can breathe air and survive out of water for up to four days.
- 02They are found in multiple states including Delaware, Maryland, New York, and Virginia, having spread since their discovery in Maryland in 2002.
- 03The fish are classified as injurious under the Lacey Act, prohibiting their possession or transport alive.
- 04Angler harvesting has shown promise in reducing snakehead populations by 25% in some areas.
- 05Control efforts are ongoing, but complete eradication of the species from U.S. waters is unlikely.
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The northern snakehead fish, often referred to as 'Frankenfish,' is an invasive species wreaking havoc on ecosystems across the East Coast of the United States. Originating from Asia, these fish are capable of breathing air and can survive for up to four days on land, which enables them to spread across various waterways. First identified in Crofton, Maryland, in 2002, they have since colonized areas in Delaware, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. Their presence threatens native fish populations and recreational fishing industries, prompting the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to classify them as an injurious species under the Lacey Act, prohibiting their live possession or transport. Control measures include encouraging anglers to harvest them, which has shown to reduce populations by 25%. Despite these efforts, the complete eradication of northern snakeheads from U.S. waters is deemed unlikely, emphasizing the need for ongoing management and reporting of sightings.
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The presence of northern snakehead fish threatens local ecosystems and recreational fishing industries, necessitating community involvement in control efforts.
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