Exotic species are one of the
greatest threats to the health of the Great Lakes
The invasion of exotic species
is one of the most grave dangers facing the Great Lakes
today. Invasive species such as Asian carp, zebra mussels,
sea lamprey, and ruffe have taken over Great Lakes ecosystems
at the expense of native species.
Exotic species are brought
to the Great Lakes region and spread through ballast water
dumped by ships that have been overseas, personal watercraft
and people travelling between bodies of water.
Exotic species have cost
the United States over $100 billion in
the last 85 years.
