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Aquatic Invasive Species

Aquatic Invasive Plants and Animals

Michigan’s waters are threatened by aquatic invasive plants and animals which negatively affect recreational fishing and harm the economic and natural resources of the state. Species such as the Zebra Mussel, Round Goby, Sea Lamprey, Eurasian Ruffe, European Frog-bit, Eurasian Watermilfoil, and Rusty Crayfish are causing significant damage to our waters, and others are knocking at the door. The DNR works alongside the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) and the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) to prevent, detect, and control invasive species when possible.

You can help reduce the spread of invasive species by properly disposing of bait, cleaning gear before leaving a waterbody, and reporting potential invasive species.

The following illustrations show a few of the most serious aquatic invasive species threatening Michigan. The presence in Michigan waters for these species is indicated as confirmed presence (CP) or not confirmed (NC).

Red Swamp Crayfish

Illustration of a red swamp crayfish with raised claws, a common invasive species found in Michigan freshwater ecosystems.
Red swamp crayfish illustration highlighting its invasive presence in Michigan waters—known for rapid spread and habitat disruption. Illustration by Joseph R. Tomelleri ©

European Frog-Bit

Illustration of European frogbit, an invasive aquatic plant with floating heart-shaped leaves and white flowers, showing growth pattern.
European frogbit is an invasive plant species in Michigan waters, forming dense mats that block sunlight and harm native ecosystems. Illustration by Bruce Kerr.

New Zealand Mudsnai

Close-up of a New Zealand mudsnail, an invasive aquatic species with a coiled shell and translucent appearance.
New Zealand mudsnail, an invasive freshwater snail, can rapidly reproduce and harm aquatic ecosystems across the U.S. Images courtesy of MN Sea Grant & USGS

Grass Carp

Illustration of a grass carp, a large silver-scaled invasive fish known for disrupting aquatic vegetation in freshwater ecosystems.
Grass carp are invasive fish species that consume large amounts of aquatic vegetation, impacting Michigan's freshwater habitats. Illustration by Joseph R. Tomelleri ©

Snakehead

Illustration of a northern snakehead, an invasive fish with a long body, dark blotchy pattern, and large pectoral fins.
Northern snakehead is an aggressive invasive species threatening native Michigan fish. Report sightings to help protect local ecosystems. Illustration by Joseph R. Tomelleri ©

Burbot

Illustration of a burbot fish with a long, eel-like body, single chin barbel, and mottled brown coloration.
The burbot is Michigan’s only freshwater cod, found in cold, deep lakes. Learn how to identify and fish for this unique species. Illustration by Joseph R. Tomelleri ©

Bowfin

Illustration of a northern snakehead fish with a long body, sharp teeth, and distinct dark blotches on light-colored scales.
Northern snakeheads are invasive fish with sharp teeth and aggressive habits. Learn how to identify and report sightings in Michigan waters. Illustrations by Joseph R. Tomelleri ©

Invasive Carp Identification

Adult Bighead and Silver Carp are large fish that can be easily identified by the position of their eyes. Both species have eyes that are below a line from the fork of the tail to the mouth. Juvenile invasive carp can be easily confused with minnows and you may find one in your bait bucket. Anglers are reminded to dispose of any unused bait in the trash!

If you believe you have seen or caught an invasive carp, DO NOT RELEASE IT. Please TAKE A PHOTO and visit Michigan.gov/Invasives to fill out an online invasive carp reporting form, or call the DNR at 517-284-5830.

Juvenile Bighead Carp (NC)

Silver carp illustration showing a sleek, silvery body with large eyes and a deeply forked tail.
Silver carp are invasive fish in Michigan waters, known for disrupting ecosystems. Learn to identify and help prevent their spread.

Adult Bighead Carp (NC)

Bighead carp illustration showing a large head, silver body, and irregular dark blotches along the sides.
Bighead carp are invasive species in Michigan waters, threatening native fish. Help stop their spread by learning how to identify them.

Juvenile Silver Carp (NC)

Silver carp illustration with a sleek silver body, large eyes set low on the head, and deeply forked tail.
Silver carp are invasive fish threatening Michigan ecosystems. Learn to identify this species and protect native aquatic life.

Adult Silver Carp (NC)

Bighead carp illustration showing a large head, silver-gray body, and low-set eyes, characteristic of this invasive fish species.
Bighead carp are invasive fish that disrupt native ecosystems in Michigan. Learn how to spot and report this species to protect local waters.

Help Stop the Spread!

It's the Law!

DO NOT launch or transport a watercraft or trailer unless it is free of aquatic organisms, including plants.

DO NOT transport a watercraft without removing all drain plugs and draining water from bilges, ballast tanks and live wells.

DO NOT release unused bait into the water.

DO NOT move fish or fish parts from one body of water to another.

Recommended steps to prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species and fish disease:

  • CLEAN your boat, trailer, waders and equipment.
  • DRAIN live wells, bilges and all water by pulling drain plugs.
  • DRY boats and equipment for five days before moving to a new waterbody.
  • DISPOSE of unwanted bait in the trash.
  • PURCHASE live bait from a retailer or collect it from the same waterbody where you will be fishing.
Labeled diagram of a trailered boat showing parts including the vehicle, trailer, rollers, hull, axle, anchor, dock lines, live wells, bilge, and motor.
Illustrated guide to parts of a trailered boat, including the motor, hull, anchor, and trailer components—helpful for boat maintenance and transport.

The DNR wants to emphasize the importance of reporting anything unusual you see, including unidentified fish. Anglers should make a note of the day, time and location of the discovery and take a picture, if possible. Submit these reports by visiting the Michigan Invasive Species website.

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