Freshwater Biodiversity Toolbox
Invasive Species Removal – Chemical Methods to Remove Invasive Fish
Invasive species adversely impact their introduced environments by causing environmental, ecological, and economic damages. Due to the reproductive biology and competitive strength of many invasive species, they can be extremely difficult or impossible to eradicate once established. Early management interventions such as removal and eradication programs can help control or eliminate populations of invasive aquatic organisms. Chemical treatments in lakes or rivers have been reported to have high success rates but are often broad-scale and negatively impact native flora and fauna as well. Other novel techniques include the use of pheromones such as anti-predator cues to control invasive fish species. Application, eradication success, and biological impacts are discussed in these syntheses.
Rating:
The majority of syntheses explored here had low scores in CEESAT demonstrating limitations in the rigour and the transparency in which the synthesis was conducted (i.e., no a-priori protocol, critical appraisal, or appropriate search strategy provided). Two syntheses (Smith & Sutherland 2014, Moore et al. 2008) scored Green for their detailed eligibility criteria or the comprehensiveness of their resources (e.g., databases, peer-reviewed literature, specialist websites). Rytwinski et al. (2018) is a detailed and systematic synthesis, demonstrating rigour in their review conduct by scoring Gold or Green in almost every CEESAT element.
The majority of syntheses scored well in RASCAT. Scores for many syntheses were lower in two elements related to the relevancy of the species reviewed to a Canadian context and the ability to demonstrate consideration of implications, practical advice, or recommendations for decision-makers.
Photo credit: USFWS Midwest Region
