More Snakeheads

Northern Snakeheads just won't go away. Yet another specimen has been caught, bringing the total to three in little more than a week. Scientists fear that the fish may be spawning, although they have yet to find very young fish or gravid females.

Should the non-indigenous fish prove to be spawning it could spell doom for many of the native inhabitants of the Potomac. The aggressive Snakehead has no natural enemies in the Potomac, and could not easily be eradicated. Fishermen in the area are being asked to watch for suspicious fish and report anything they find to the DNR.

What If You Find One?
First and foremost, you should not let it go. The fish should be killed and the Department of Natural Resources contacted. If you are not comfortable killing the fish, or don't know how to, contact the DNR for assistance. If you are unable or don't know how to reach the DNR, contact your local law enforcement agency.

What You Shouldn't Do
You should not take a snakehead home to keep in your aquarium. These are large aggressive fish that are not suited to an aquarium. This problem stemmed from dumping an unwanted fish in waters they did not originate from.

This problem could have been entirely avoided. Instead of dumping an unwanted fish, take it to a pet shop, give it to a friend, or if all else fails, euthanize it. Be a responsible aquarist - don't ever put your fish in a river, pond, or lake.