Internet Trade of Aquatic Invasive Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an invasive species?

The EPA defines an invasive species as “an alien species whose introduction does or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health”

Why do people buy and sell aquatic invasive species?

People often buy and sell aquatic invasive species for water gardens, ponds, or aquariums. Many common characteristics of invasive species, such as being hardy or easily reproducing, make them attractive to buyers. These buyers many not know that these species are potentially invasive and hazardous to the Great Lakes ecosystem.

What will GLC do with the information collected using this program?

We will use the information gathered to determine how many and what kinds of invasive species are being sold over the Internet.

We will attempt to contact a selection of sellers of regulated invasive species and share educational materials regarding the regulations and the risks associated with those species. We will cooperate with the requests of state and local regulators to notify them of any communications we send regarding regulated species.

Why should I care about invasive species?

Invasive species can cause harm to the environment, the economy, and to human health. Their impacts can be far-reaching, from contributing to the decline of particular fisheries or clogging water intake pipes for companies, to reducing habitat for threatened or endangered species.

What other organizations are working on issues dealing with the Internet serving as a pathway for the introduction of invasive species?

We don’t know of any yet! Please let us know if you are working on this issue – we would love to collaborate with you.