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Introduction through Aquatic Pathways |
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Aquaculture: Historically the culture of finfish and shellfish was a primary path for both intentional and unintentional introductions. For example, on the Pacific coast, the intentional introduction of the Pacific oyster, Crassostrea gigas, brought several unwanted species introductions, including the oyster drill, Urosalpinx cinerea. Cultured non-native species can also escape from captivity. The aquaculture industry is now strongly regulated to minimize these unwanted introductions. Aquarium trade: Wholesale importers, culture facilities and retail pet stores transport and sell non-native fresh and saltwater plants, fish, and invertebrates. The release or escape of specimens into the wild by the industry and the hobbyist aquarium owner has led to both intentional and unintentional introductions. Ffor example, the common goldfish (Carassius auratus) has become established throughout the lower 48 states, as well as in Hawaii. Use of live bait: Recreational fishers buy commercially-sold live worms and other aquatic organisms. Both the bait species and its packing material can result in introductions through intentional and accidental release. Back to introduction of exotic species page or to the images of introduction page. |
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