Snakehead

The snakehead is an invasive species invasive species
An invasive species is any plant or animal that has spread or been introduced into a new area where they are, or could, cause harm to the environment, economy, or human, animal, or plant health. Their unwelcome presence can destroy ecosystems and cost millions of dollars.

Learn more about invasive species in the United States with potential to threaten native fishes, the recreational fishing industry and aquatic ecosystems. These freshwater fish are able breathe air out of water and can cross land, propelling themselves by moving their head and back fin in opposite directions. These adaptations allow them to survive out of water for up to four days.

Prior to being added to the list of injurious wildlife under the Lacey Act in 2002, which banned import and interstate transport without a permit, snakeheads were sold in pet stores and in live food fish markets and some restaurants in several major U.S. cities.

What to do if you capture a snakehead fish

• Do not release the fish or throw it up on the bank (it could wriggle back into the water). Remember, this fish is an air breather and can live a long time out of water.
• Kill the fish by freezing it or putting it on ice for an extended length of time.
• Photograph the fish if you have access to a camera so the species of snakehead fish can be positively identified.
• Contact your state conservation agency or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (703-358-2148) as soon as possible. Keeping data on the size, number and location of where snakeheads are caught or seen is vital to controlling this invasive fish.