Pest Fish
Unfortunately in Australian waterways we have a lot of pest fish species ruining the native habitat and menacing other fish species – we have compiled a very short list of known pests. The hard working team here at MASA strives to educate anglers and the general public of the dangers these fish pose to our native fish populations and the devastation to river banks, waterways and the dam’s of Queensland.
Eastern Gambusia – 
Gambusia holbrooki – also known as plague minnow, gambusia and mosquito fish, are native to North America. They were initially introduced into Australian waters sometime during the 1920s for mosquito control. However, since that time their ability to control mosquito larvae has been shown to be no greater than that of small native fish that feed on insects. Eastern Gambusia have been associated with the decline Australian native species such as gudgeon, hardyheads and some rainbow fish.
Gambusia holbrooki – also known as plague minnow, gambusia and mosquito fish, are native to North America. They were initially introduced into Australian waters sometime during the 1920s for mosquito control. However, since that time their ability to control mosquito larvae has been shown to be no greater than that of small native fish that feed on insects. Eastern Gambusia have been associated with the decline Australian native species such as gudgeon, hardyheads and some rainbow fish.
Carp – Cyprinus carpio –are well known as a noxious pest because of their destructive bottom-feeding habits, which stir up sediments and muddy the water. Over the years carp have been the focus of countless control efforts by government bodies and concerned members of the community. Unfortunately, any pest as widespread and abundant as carp is impossible to eradicate completely.
Tilapia – Oreochromis and Sarotherodon part of the Cichlidae family. Two species have established in Queensland – the Mozambique mouthbrooder (Oreochromis mossambicus) and the black mangrove cichlid (Tilapia mariae. ) This Pest has successfully invaded and dominated many native aquatic habitats due to their highly efficient reproductive strategy, simple food requirements and their ability to live in a variety of conditions. They disrupt native species when competing for habitat and food, behaving aggressively and disturbing plant beds when building nests.
