In Alberta, schools of invasive goldfish, some as large as dinner plates, are causing a significant threat to native ecosystems, as reported by the provincial government. Alberta’s Environment Minister, Grant Hunter, emphasized that goldfish should be kept in aquariums, not released into the province’s waters.
The presence of goldfish has been identified in over 100 locations in Alberta, with new sites being added annually, according to Nicole Kimmel, the province’s aquatic invasive species specialist. Kimmel clarified that the goldfish are not accidentally entering waterways through toilets but are deliberately being dumped into the waters where they not only survive but also reproduce successfully.
To address this issue, Alberta has launched the “Don’t Let It Loose” campaign to deter the illegal release of species into water bodies, with penalties of up to $100,000 and/or imprisonment for offenders. Kimmel warned that releasing goldfish could introduce various harmful elements like snails, fish disease, and plant fragments that could disrupt Alberta’s aquatic environments.
Goldfish are known for their adaptability and voracious appetite, posing a direct threat to native fish populations by outcompeting them for resources. These non-native fish can withstand harsh winters in Alberta and have a high reproductive rate, with a single goldfish potentially spawning 40,000 offspring in just three years.
The goldfish invasion is not limited to Alberta, as University of Toronto biology professor Nicholas Mandrak highlighted that goldfish are considered global invaders due to their ability to thrive in diverse environments. Mandrak’s research focuses on controlling the spread of goldfish from storm-water management ponds into the wild in Ontario.
The Alberta government is closely monitoring goldfish populations across the province. When necessary, goldfish populations must be eradicated through chemical treatments or draining water bodies to prevent further ecological damage. Mandrak emphasized the urgency of addressing the illegal introduction of goldfish to prevent a nationwide crisis impacting native species across Canada.
To combat this issue, Albertans are urged to report sightings of goldfish and other invasive fish to the Aquatic Invasive Species Hotline and report any suspected intentional releases to the Report A Poacher hotline.