On May 27, the Ministère de l'Environnement, de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques, de la Faune et des Parcs (MELCCFP) captured three reed carp, a reputedly invasive aquatic species, in Vaudreuil Bay on Lac des Deux Montagnes. This is the fourth confirmed mention of reed carp in the wild in Quebec since 2016, but the first in the region.

Given its rapid growth, voracious appetite and diet of aquatic vegetation, reed carp can severely damage fish habitat, disrupt the functioning of aquatic ecosystems and adversely affect water quality.

Even without forming a viable long-term population, grass carp can cause significant damage to the aquatic grass beds on which many native fish species depend for feeding and reproduction.

The MELCCFP, in collaboration with its local partners, has carried out an assessment of the situation and implemented an intervention strategy aimed at capturing the specimens observed for analysis. This examination will confirm their provenance, age, origin and sexual maturity.

So far, the operation has resulted in the capture of three grass carp, but the Ministry will continue its efforts over the coming days to facilitate the potential recovery of other specimens.

What to do when fishing for grass carp?

Invasive carp, including grass carp, are the only invasive fish species whose release is prohibited in Quebec. When in doubt, use the iPêche application to identify the fish you've caught. If in doubt, don't hesitate to release the fish to avoid the unnecessary death of a native species. Otherwise, keep the fish in a cool place and return it to the MELCCFP as soon as possible.

Anyone who believes they have caught a grass carp is invited to take a good-quality photo of the specimen and contact MELCCFP customer service at [email protected] or by telephone at 1-877-346-6763. Preventing the introduction and spread of aquatic invasive species

Prevention is crucial, because once an invasive species has become established in a body of water, eradicating it is virtually impossible, and controlling it requires recurrent and costly action.

You can help prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species by practicing responsible fishing and leisure activities, notably by respecting the ban on the use of live bait fish in Quebec.

In addition, it is illegal to release aquarium species into the wild, or native species into a body of water where they are not normally found. Transporting and stocking fish requires a permit issued by the MELCCFP.