Invasive Fish Removal

Early detection and rapid response is the most effective form of invasive species management, so when a downstream neighbor contacted RSAP staff alerting them of a school of tilapia moving in and several plecos hanging around, we had to call in for assistance from the Nature Coast Aquatic Preserve (NCAP). While Trisha was giving the kayak tour, Joe (RSAP) and Tyler (NCAP) searched the lower river for invasive fish and removed 11 plecos. The tilapia were not observed, but staff will continue to monitor for new winter inhabitants. 23 tilapia were removed from the headsprings last winter, so staff need to remain vigilant to prevent tilapia from establishing in the Rainbow River, like other freshwater systems around the state.