Invader species such as whirling disease, zebra mussels, eurasian water milfoil and purple loosestrife have been found in Saskatchewan or pose a real threat of becoming established here.

Amendments to The Fisheries Regulations now prohibit Saskatchewan residents and visitors from importing, possessing, transporting or selling aquiatic invasive species that are considered to be a potentially significant risk to Saskatchewan waters.  For a list of prohibited fish, [click here].

The Ministry of Environment is asking the public not to purchase a specific species of fish called the northern snakehead, which has been found available at local pet stores in the province.

Northern Snakehead Media Advisory

Northern Snakehead Fact Sheet 

Whirling disease affects trout species with rainbow trout being especially susceptible. The disease is caused by a microscopic parasite that spreads from fish to fish by the tubifex worm. The disease could enter Saskatchewan by importing disease-bearing fish, or by importing water or mud, which may carry spores of the parasite.

Zebra mussels are fingernail-size clams with brown and white striped shells. The larvae are too small to see and can be easily spread. The adult mussels attach to boats and trailers and can survive for a week or more out of water. They quickly coat lake and river bottoms, which reduces habitat for bottom-living creatures. The mussels clog boat engine intakes, coat boat hulls and their jagged remains make swimming hazardous.

Eurasian water milfoil is a non-native aquatic plant that chokes out native plants and spreads rapidly to new areas. This weed stops water flow, displaces native plants, covers spawning habitats used by fish and affects waterbased recreation. These weeds can be introduced from fish livewells or boat propellors.

Purple loosestrife has already invaded many wetlands and major waterways of the prairies. The plant chokes out shoreline and wetland plants and fills in open areas. It eventually creates a dense purple landscape almost totally devoid of wildlife.

If you are vacationing outside Saskatchewan take these steps before returning:

• remove all clams and all weeds from your boat and motor;
• clean all vegetation from your boat, trailer and equipment by scrubbing with a 10 per cent solution of household chlorine bleach and water;
• drain livewells, bait containers and the engine cooling system;
• do not move live bait or any aquatic plants. You may be transporting an invader species;
• clean and dry your equipment before relaunching; and
• report any sightings to the nearest Ministry of Environment office or call the TIP line at 1-800-667-7561.