Invasive Species

Even small organisms can have big impacts

In this globalized world, more species are traveling farther and faster than ever before.  The aquatic weed hydrilla threatens to clog up Cayuga Lake and its tributaries while small insects such as the emerald ash borer or hemlock woolly adelgid threaten to decimate widespread tree species.

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HOGWEED AND MORE - Several local plants can give us rashes. Although several are exotic, poison ivy is a Finger Lakes native.

 

HYDRILLA - In 2011, an aggressive aquatic weed called hydrilla was found lurking in Cayuga Inlet. Efforts to eradicate it are ongoing.

 

SEA LAMPREYS - An invasive, parasitic fish that have harmed trout and salmon populations in Cayuga Lake.

 

ROUND GOBIES - These bottom-feeders are here to stay. What does that mean for other fish and anglers? Only time will tell.

 

HEMLOCK WOOLLY ADELGID - Deep freezes can kill this destructive forest pest, but they reproduce so quickly that it may not matter.

 

GARLIC MUSTARD - Everyone's favorite villain, when it comes to local invasive plants.