Waterfront property, good distance to amenities-- what more could an invasive sailfin catfish ask for?

These holes have become a common sight for our freshwater fisheries biologists. Dug by the exotic and invasive armored sailfin catfish (aka “plecos” or “Plecostomus”), these burrows serve as nesting sites where the catfish protect their eggs and young. However, this digging behavior can cause problems for Florida’s freshwater ecosystems as they destabilize banks and contribute to erosion and increased turbidity in the water.

Invasive species like this one are often introduced to Florida’s waterways when aquarium pets are released into the wild. While it may seem harmless, releasing pets can have serious consequences for the environment and wildlife that depend on these habitats. FWC Photos #Pleco #Catfish #Florida