Everglades Event Raises Focus on Nonnative Fish

Biologists say nearly two dozen nonnative freshwater fish species call the Everglades home, which isn't good for Florida's native fish communities.
 
To combat the problem, the Everglades Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area is hosting a "nonnative fish round-up" Saturday across South Florida. All anglers fishing the Everglades that day can participate. Prizes will be awarded, including a "slam" prize to the person who catches the most nonnative species.
 
The goal is to raise awareness about potential negative foreign fish have in Florida waters while encouraging anglers to target these nonnative species for food.
 
Information gathered during the round-up also will help biologists learn about nonnative fish distribution and abundance.
 
Participants must register online by Friday at http://www.evergladescisma.org/roundup/