Distribution of Invasive Fish Species in Small Water Bodies of Southern Finland

Invasive fish species threaten the biodiversity of Finland’s aquatic ecosystems. New occurrences of invasive fish are being discovered in our natural waters at an accelerating pace.

This project pilots eDNA-based sampling in small water bodies in Southern Finland and develops and implements the use of eDNA methods to determine the distribution of invasive fish species more broadly. The project focuses on two harmful invasive species listed by the EU — pumpkinseed (Lepomis gibbosus) and Chinese sleeper (Perccottus glenii) — both of which are spreading in Finland. The information obtained will help fill knowledge gaps regarding the distribution of these invasive fish species in Southern Finland. Updated distribution data will make it possible to prioritize the most urgent sites where eradication measures should be targeted, thereby minimizing the risk of these harmful invasive species spreading into larger lakes and watercourses.

In addition, the project will establish a functional data pipeline and a cooperation model between the Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), the Economic Development Centres and Finnish Supervisory Agency concerning harmful invasive species. This is essential to ensure that information about harmful invasive species requiring eradication reaches the authorities responsible for carrying out removal measures efficiently. Furthermore, the Economic Development Centres will prepare guidelines within the project for a standardized operating model for implementing removal actions.