In-situ tests of sound-bubble-strobe light barrier technologies to prevent range expansions of Asian carp

• DOI: 10.3391/ai.2012.7.1.005
• Publication Date: 2012-02-20T07:57:25Z
• Authors: Blake Ruebush; Greg Sass; John Chick; Joshua Stafford
• Keywords: 0106 biological sciences; 570; Aquaculture and Fisheries; Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecology; Hypophthalmichthys molitrix; 590; Illinois River; 14. Life underwater; 01 natural sciences; management; Hypophthalmichthys nobilis; invasive species

Bighead (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis [Richardson, 1845]) and silver (H. molitrix [Valenciennes, 1844]) carps (collectively, Asian carp) have invaded the Mississippi River Basin successfully established populations in Illinois River, where they negatively influenced native fishes now pose an imminent threat to invading Lake Michigan through Chicago Sanitary Ship Canal. Sound-bubble-strobe light barrier (SBSLB) technologies may potential slow carp range expansions; for example, a sound-bubble was 95% effective at deterring bighead passage hatchery raceway experiment. In 20092010, we tested effectiveness of SBSLB repelling non-Asian species (all other tested) within Quiver Creek, tributary River. To test effectiveness, were removed from upstream barrier, marked, released downstream SBSLB. also collected mainstem transplanted barrier. Trials conducted with ON OFF determine rates. Short-term extended trials differences rates using sound, bubbles, strobe lights (flashing not flashing) versus sound bubbles only. Barrier evaluated by recaptures. Two 575 marked 85 2,937 individuals fish breached recaptured. No (n=101) made passage. Our results suggest that could be used as deterrent system repel carp, but should absolute prevent expansions. Potential negative influences this technology on non-target must prior implementation management tool.