Introduction through Sports

Introduction Learning Modules Identify Exotics About ESCAPE Glossary of Terms ESCAPE Site Map Home

Enhancing recreational fisheries has led U.S. federal and state agencies to import numerous game fish species into the U.S. between 1890 and 1980. Accidental release and unplanned spread of some species was a by-product of this activity. As of 1999, there were at least 75 non-North American fish species known to be established in the U.S. In addition to planned releases, private citizens may also transport and release their favorite fish or shellfish species into a body of water, hoping to establish a viable population.