Big Muddy Speaker Series presents:

Online Presentation by fish biologist Patrick Kroboth, U.S. Geological Survey Columbia Environmental Research Center

Patrick Kroboth, fish biologist with the U.S. Geological Survey, shared the latest in invasive black carp research, studying the species status in the wild, life history, behavior, and potential impacts.

In the past couple of decades, we've watched as several invasive carp species have exploded throughout our midwestern rivers. Biologists have their eyes on the next carp invasion which is the black carp (Mylopharyngodon piceus).

Where the silver and bighead carp feed on plankton, the base of the aquatic food chain, the black carp feeds on mussels, clams and snails. These fish have remarkable molars designed to crush hard shells. This could be particularly damaging to the ecosystems of Missouri River tributaries like the Osage and Gasconade that are rich in native mussel species.

Patrick Kroboth, fish biologist with the U.S. Geological Survey, will share some of the latest in black carp research, studying the species status in the wild, life history, behavior, and potential impacts.

A black carp engulfing a clam.
photo courtesy of USGS