Exotics Aquatic Nuisance Species 

An aquatic nuisance species (ANS) is defined as a waterborne, non-native organism that threatens the diversity or abundance of native species, the ecological stability of impacted waters, or threatens a commercial, agricultural or recreational activity.

These species have the potential to cause significant ecological problems because they have been introduced into a habitat in which there are no natural controls, such as pathogens, parasites, and predators. Lack of natural controls in a new habitat may allow a species to grow at or near its potential, exponential growth rate. If such species become established, they may disrupt species relationships in the new habitat. As a nuisance species proliferates, other species' relationship change in the habitat. the introduced species may prey upon, out-compete, or cause disease in a native species.

The introduction of harmful non-indigenous aquatic species, also known as exotics, into the Great Lakes region causes ecological, economic, societal and public health impacts that threaten the value of the region's water resources.

The Great Lakes have been subject to invasions of ANS since the settlement of the region by Europeans. Since the 1800s, at least 140 non-indigenous aquatic organisms have been introduced in the Great Lakes ecosystem. Approximately 10 percent of these species cause the greatest harm.

Local communities dependent upon water from the Great Lakes basin, or tourism as a major portion of their economy, can be greatly impacted by the introduction of ANS. Additionally, the quality of life of the citizens of these communities can be impacted by the introduction of these organisms.

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