A comprehensive review of invasion and ecological impacts of introduced common carp (Cyprinus carpio) in Lake Naivasha, Kenya

Abstract

The motivations for non-native fish introductions vary around the globe, generally including aquaculture, aquarium use, sport fishing, stock enhancement and biological control, while some have been accidentally introduced (Lin et al., 2015). Aquaculture is generally the main driver for non-native fish introduction in most regions (Figure 1; Gozlan, 2008). The introduction of nonnative fish species has several benefits, including significant contributions to global aquaculture and enhancement of capture fisheries. At the same time, however, the ecological risks they pose to the recipient systems are not always assessed prior to their introduction or are not accurately predicted (Hickley et al., 2015). Some of the commonly introduced fish species, (e.g. Common carp; Nile tilapia; Mosquito fish; Nile perch; Brown trout; Rainbow trout; Largemouth bass) are listed worldwide as invaders (Gozlan, 2008).Invasive fish species are generally known to pose serious threats to aquatic biodiversity, being regarded as one of the main causes of native species endangerment and extinction (Attayde et al., 2011;

Ecological niche and life-history traits of redbelly tilapia (Coptodon zillii, Gervais 1848) in its native and introduced ranges

“…In Lake Naivasha, the introduction of common carp, C. carpio was implicated in the reduction of C. zillii abundance, although this finding was not from direct investigation (Yongo et al, 2022). However, the use of C. carpio as a biological control agent may not be a good alternative because it is also one of the most powerful invaders capable of degrading freshwater habitats, especially in the introduced range, albeit it can be a good alternative for increasing capture production (Britton et al, 2007;Piczak et al, 2023;Mutethya and Yongo, 2021). Although its feasibility and effectiveness is questionable, attracting C. zillii by releasing warm water to a location where they can be caught during winter can be tried in subtropical/temperate regions (Ishikawa and Tachihara, 2008) in order to eliminate or reduce its populations.…”

“…After the accidental introduction of C. carpio in 1998/9, the catch contribution of C. zillii diminished (Hickley et al, 2004;Oyugi et al, 2011). It is speculated that this could be due to the alteration of the existing ecosystem by C. carpio, which may have resulted in competition for food as well as destruction of shelter and breeding grounds used by C. zillii (Mutethya and Yongo, 2021).…”

The invasion of tilapia in South China freshwater systems: A review

“…Thus, understanding how invasive species can affect ecosystem functions is critical for management purposes. There are various reasons for fish introductions, including aquaculture purposes, fisheries stock enhancement, sport fisheries, aquarium trade, and biological control (Canonico et al, 2005; Lin et al, 2015; Mutethya & Yongo, 2021), as well as Intentional fish introductions by humans through religious animal release activities (e.g., Agoramoorthy & Hsu, 2005; Fuoco, 2001; Liu et al, 2012, 2013). Aquaculture is the major reason in most regions for fish introduction (Figure 1; Gozlan & Newton, 2009).…”

Microsatellite marker Based Genetic Monitoring of Exotic Common Carp Strains (Cyprinus carpio L. and Cyprinus carpio communis) in the Chenab River, Punjab, Pakistan

“…The feeding behavior of carp in benthic environments leads to the disturbance of sediments, the release of nutrients, and the consequent elevation of water turbidity (12). Consequently, this elevated turbidity imposes constraints on the foraging capabilities of other sh species.…”

“…The common carp strains are described as a nuisance sh in a number of western countries due to the fact that it causes signi cant ecological disruption to aquatic communities as well as the environment (1,12,16). It is generally agreed that the common carp poses the biggest risk to the variety of plant and animal life found in wetland and shallow lake habitats in the United States (17,18).…”