Exotic pest fish - home | Common Q&A | Noxious fish | Non-indigenous fish | Education & publications

Exotic pest fish

Queensland has the highest diversity of freshwater fish in Australia. Unfortunately this diversity is threatened by the presence of exotic fish (sometimes referred to as 'non-indigenous') which have successfullly established in some of our waterways. Some exotic fish pose such a threat to Queensland waters that they have been declared as 'noxious' in fisheries legislation.

What are exotic pest fish?

Exotic pest fish are fish species that are not native (indigenous) to an area.  Most exotic fish which have established in Queensland waters have been released by irresponsible members of the public.

What is a noxious fish?

A noxious fish is one that has been declared as harmful by Australian statute law because they are, or may become, a pest to native aquatic communities.  Noxious fish have characteristics which are detrimental to other fish, aquatic habitats or humans.

Why are exotic fish harmful to the environment?

The introduction of exotic fish species into Queensland's natural waterways may lead to a reduction in native fish numbers.  Exotic fish affect native fish through direct competition for food and space, predation, habitat alteration and the introduction of exotic diseases and parasites.

What is DPI&F Fisheries doing?

DPI Fisheries is investigating the effectiveness of a number of different methods for controlling noxious and non-indigenous fish, without impacting on the native fish stocks. These methods include:

• restoring native fish habitats (in conjunction with a number of community groups);
• physically removing noxious and introduced species (such as line fishing and selective netting);
• using fish poisons (piscicides) that will break down rapidly; and
• investigating methods to decrease the numbers of young being produced (eg disturbances to breeding behaviour, the use of hormones and genetic manipulation).

Legislation exists under the   Fisheries Act 1994 for the management of noxious and non-indigenous fishes in Queensland waters.  Fines of up to $150 000 can be imposed on anyone having noxious fish in their possession without a permit or persons convicted of releasing non-indigenous species. Additional penalties may be imposed to cover the cost of eradication measures.

DPI&F Fisheries is also undertaking eductional campaigns to increase awareness of the problem.

For further information on what DPI&F Fisheries is doing to control exotic pest fish, please see Control of exotic pest fishes - An operational strategy .

What can I do to help?

You can help prevent the spread of these aquatic invaders by reporting any sightings to the DPI&F on 13 25 23.

To report illegal fishing activities in Queensland, phone the Fishwatch Hotline on 1800 017 116.

Contacts

For more information on exotic pest fish, please contact DPI&F Business Information Center 13 25 23

Last reviewed 3 January 2007