Fri, May 11, 2018 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM BEATY BIODIVERSITY CENTRE. In the early 1970s, in a well-intentioned effort to reduce reliance on algaecides and herbicides in ponds, several species of carp from Asia were introduced to the U.S. These large fish escaped within just a few years and entered the Mississippi River where they now breed and comprise over half the biomass of many waters and disrupt food webs while their spectacular jumping activity has reduced boating. They are now within about 100km of the Great Lakes and Canada but already cover about a quarter of the US. Various schemes including harvest for food, electrical barriers, sonic deterrents, genetic engineering, poisoned food, and pheromones and being considered for their control.
Dr. Peter Sorensen (University of Minnesota) will address the biology and range of this fascinating group of invasive species, the ecological threat they pose to North American waters, their economic impact, and what solutions are being explored to deal with them.
Location: Theatre (Rm. 120), AERL Building, 2202 Main Mall, UBC