Conservation experts are advising anglers to respond swiftly if they encounter the northern snakehead, an invasive fish known for its distinctive reptilian appearance. The recommendation includes cutting off its head to prevent its spread.

Background on the Northern Snakehead

The northern snakehead is a predatory fish species originally hailing from Asia. It was first spotted in the United States in 2002 in a Maryland pond, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This invasive species quickly expanded, infiltrating local waterways and reaching as far as Missouri, where authorities recently issued warnings about its presence.

Identifying the Snakehead

Characterized by its snake-like head and a body with python-like coloration, the northern snakehead can grow up to three feet in length. As noted by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), they exhibit substantial jaws equipped with sharp teeth and can even maneuver across land to access different water bodies.

Angela Sokolowski, an invasive species ecologist at MDC, highlights the resemblance between the northern snakehead and native bowfin fish. Distinctions in color—snakeheads are generally tan with dark mottling, while bowfin are olive-green with a black spot—are crucial for accurate identification. Additionally, bowfin possess peg-like teeth, unlike the pointed teeth of the snakehead.

The Threat of Invasion

The northern snakehead poses a significant risk to local fish populations by competing for food and habitat. Their ability to breathe air enables them to survive out of water for extended periods, allowing them to colonize new areas efficiently. Because of these invasive tendencies, conservationists strongly advocate for anglers to catch and eliminate this species.

Legal Considerations

Under the Lacey Act, it is illegal in the U.S. to transport, sell, or possess northern snakehead fish. This regulation underscores the seriousness with which authorities view the threat posed by this invasive species.

How Anglers Can Help

The MDC recommends anglers take the following actions if they catch a northern snakehead:

• Immediately kill the fish by removing its head.
• Gut the fish or place it in a sealed plastic bag to ensure it cannot survive.
• Report the catch to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or local conservation agencies.
• Photograph the fish for positive identification purposes.