07-13-2004, 12:30 AM
Here's another example of what happens when someone introduces non-native fish to a body of water.
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Goldfish Blamed For Bass Decline
GARY, IN—Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) officials say goldfish-the kind commonly sold in pet stores-are destroying populations of bass and other gamefish in Spectacle Lake, near Gary.
It's not the first time-goldfish wreaked havoc in Spectacle 15 years ago, when biologists attempted a controlled eradication to rid the lake of goldfish. Although the measure worked temporarily, goldfish were reintroduced to the lake, presumably by people releasing pet fish. As a result, goldfish make up approximately 90 percent of the lake's fish population. Biologists say they're destructive to bass because they kick up mud and destroy bass nests. In addition, the goldfish produce large amounts of mucus and can reduce oxygen levels to intolerable levels.
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Goldfish Blamed For Bass Decline
GARY, IN—Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) officials say goldfish-the kind commonly sold in pet stores-are destroying populations of bass and other gamefish in Spectacle Lake, near Gary.
It's not the first time-goldfish wreaked havoc in Spectacle 15 years ago, when biologists attempted a controlled eradication to rid the lake of goldfish. Although the measure worked temporarily, goldfish were reintroduced to the lake, presumably by people releasing pet fish. As a result, goldfish make up approximately 90 percent of the lake's fish population. Biologists say they're destructive to bass because they kick up mud and destroy bass nests. In addition, the goldfish produce large amounts of mucus and can reduce oxygen levels to intolerable levels.
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