Spiny waterfleas are tiny crustaceans less than 1/2″ long with long, sharp, barbed tails. Spiny waterfleas collect in gelatinous globs on fishing equipment and lines.
Distribution:
NOTE: If you receive a "sign in" message, click cancel to continue. Confirmed observations of Spiny waterflea submitted to the NYS Invasive Species Database. For more information, visit iMapInvasives
Habitat:
Spiny waterfleas thrive in deep lakes but can also be found in shallow lakes and rivers.
Threats & Impacts:
Spiny waterfleas are voracious predators of small zooplankton, like Daphnia, an important food for young native fishes. They reproduce rapidly and eggs are capable of lying dormant all winter, resisting drying and freezing. As a result of their sharp spines, smaller fish cannot readily consume them, adding to their explosive populations.
Management Techniques:
No control methods exist. Prevention is key. Since fishing and boating equipment is the most likely means of spread, anglers and water-users must take precautions. Boats and gear should be thoroughly checked, cleaned, and dried before entering new waterways.
