From pet to pest, goldfish can wreck entire ecosystems
Reported by ScienceDaily · June 26 at 7:45 PM · Summary by Pawdeck
A peer-reviewed study in the Journal of Animal Ecology, led by researchers at The University of Toledo and the University of Missouri, found that goldfish released into the wild can cloud water, damage food webs and harm native fish. In outdoor experimental lakes, goldfish triggered a "regime shift" that reorganized ecosystems into a degraded state.
Background
Goldfish are widely kept pets, and when released they grow large, stir up sediment and compete with native species for food. Ecosystem regime shifts are generally hard and costly to reverse once they occur, which is why prevention is usually the priority for invasive species.
Why it matters
Owners who think releasing a pet fish is kind may unknowingly start an invasion that harms local waterways and wildlife.
What you can do
Never release a pet goldfish or other aquarium animal into ponds, lakes or streams, even if it seems healthy. Ask your local wildlife agency or a rehoming group about safe options for unwanted fish.
Written by Pawdeck from the report by ScienceDaily. Background is general information, not advice about your pet; if you are worried, call your vet.
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