KEY TAKEAWAYS: Four invasive Asian carp species are spreading across Louisiana waters Fish outcompete native species by consuming key food sources Large size and rapid growth limit natural predators Sightings reported in coastal areas during high river discharge   “Asian carp” refer s to four species of fish that have become established in the U.S. over recent decades, including silver, bighead, black and grass carp. While common carp have been in the U.S. for over a century, invasive Asian carps are fast-growing fish that are out-competing native fish, resulting in ecological disaster. In Louisiana, these four species were introduced initially for beneficial reasons, like controlling snail populations and algae, yet they have spread throughout and dominated waters. How are Asian carps affecting Louisiana’s fish populations? Asian carp withstand variations in water temperature, dissolved oxygen and salinity. With a lifespan of over 10 years, these fish grow quickly and reach sizes of up to 100 pounds, which allows them to escape predatory mortality, according to the LSU AgCenter. The most significant concern regarding the growing and spreading population of Asian carp is the alteration of aquatic food webs, as the carp consume microscopic plants and zooplankton that make up the basis of many freshwater food webs. Because of the size, feeding rate and population growth of Asian carp, food sources and aquatic hiding places become scarce for native fish and invertebrates. These fish also threaten native freshwater muscles, one of the most endangered species of animals in the U.S., says the LSU AgCenter. Are there any efforts to get rid of Asian carp in Louisiana? There are few control options for reducing or eliminating Asian carps, as there is only a small market for Asian carps, but demand and prices are not sufficient to sustain commercial industry, and there are no native fish big enough to eat even juvenile Asian carp, according to the LSU AgCenter. Asian carp reported in Louisiana’s coastal waters Asian carp have reportedly been seen in coastal waters near freshwater inputs or during high Mississippi River discharges. Reported locations include Vermillion Bay, Cote Blanche Bay, Drum Bay, as well as the area of Holly and Rutherford Beach, according to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife Fisheries. Presley Bo Tyler is the Louisiana Deep South Connect Team reporter for USA Today Network. Find her on X @PresleyTyler02 and email at [email protected] This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: Are invasive Asian carp fish threatening Louisiana waters? What to know Reporting by Presley Bo Tyler, Shreveport Times / Shreveport Times USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect ...read more read less