Lake Tahoe invaded by giant goldfish

If you plan on visiting Lake Tahoe, you may be surprised to see what can only be described as monster goldfish swimming in those waters. Researchers have recently found goldfish of epic proportions; the one pictured here weighed 4.2 pounds and was 1.5 feet long, according to Scientific American. Scientists believe the goldfish found their way to the lake by being dumped by their owners.

Goldfish are an invasive species that could potentially damage Lake Tahoe’s delicate ecosystem. The goldfish are gobbling up native species and soiling the clear waters with their excrement, causing algal blooms. The goldfish isn’t the only culprit, though. Other warm-water fishes have also made the lake their home.

A recent report on California’s aquarium trade revealed a not-so-startling trend: Aquarium dumping is becoming common as pet owners are not up to the challenge of caring for their fish. How can fish be much trouble? Usually, they are gotten rid of due to their size or aggressiveness to other fish. Fish can also be introduced into ecosystems through aquaculture, using live bait, or tagging along on fishing and cruise ships.

So, what should fish owners do with their unwanted fish? Sue Williams, professor of evolution and ecology at the University of California, Davis recommends contacting the pet store where the owner bought the fish, selling it or calling the Department of Fish and Wildlife. Though dumping the fish down the toilet is an oft used method of euthanasia, it’s probably not the best route. Some fish can survive the flush anyway, and it’s not exactly the best thing to do for your plumbing.

Giant goldfish aren’t just found in the wild. According to BBC, the largest pet goldfish on record is Goldie, a 15-inch, two pound fish. Goldie grew to that size over 15 years despite being kept in a small aquarium.

Image courtesy of Live Science.