Discovery and Monitoring of an Exotic Loach Misgurnus anguillicaudatus in the Middle Oconee River

Learn about the discovery and monitoring of an invasive Weather Loach species in a conference presentation from the Georgia Water Resources Conference. Explore how UGA students first discovered the Misgurnus anguillicaudatus during a fish survey in McNutt Creek near Athens, GA, and follow the subsequent research into this exotic species' presence. Understand the significance of finding 30 specimens of this aquarium trade fish in Georgia waters, marking the state's first documented case despite the species being present in 19 other states. Examine the potential environmental impacts on local fish populations, including the State-threatened Altamaha shiner, and learn about ongoing genetic and morphological research to determine the introduction's origin. Discover the collaborative efforts between stakeholders to develop monitoring and management strategies, while gaining insights into a developing public education program aimed at raising awareness about invasive aquatic species risks.