Silver carp

Silver carp are freshwater fish native to eastern Asia that have been introduced to North America, particularly the Mississippi River Basin. Known for their rapid movement, they can leap unexpectedly when disturbed, sometimes reaching heights of over 10 feet. They are filter feeders, consuming plankton and small aquatic organisms, which can disrupt local ecosystems by outcompeting native fish. Silver carp are considered invasive because they reproduce quickly, spread widely, and threaten the balance of native aquatic species and commercial fisheries. Managing their populations is important to protect ecological health and economic interests in affected regions.