By Saskatchewan Environment

Watch For Spiny Waterflea

May 10, 2023 | 11:06 AM

Any idea what this is?

It’s an invasive species called spiny waterflea.

Spiny waterflea are a type of zooplankton that grow to 2cm in length and have a black eye and a long, barbed tail spine. Their spines make them undesirable as a food source for fish and waterfowl and they can outcompete native zooplankton, which can result in impacts to the local fishery.

Spiny waterflea have not been detected in Saskatchewan, however they are spreading in lakes in Manitoba and Ontario.

There are no known methods for eradicating spiny waterflea once they have been introduced to a waterbody, so prevention is key!

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Be sure to check your angling gear, watercraft, and all equipment for spiny waterflea to prevent the spread of this invasive species, as they are extremely hardy – even in sub-zero temperatures.

Proper clean, drain and dry practices are the most effectives means of prevention.

Learn more at: Invasive Species | Fish and Wildlife Issues | Government of Saskatchewan or here: https://bit.ly/3pkz833