Which invasive species has notably affected Lake Ontario's ecosystem?

Which invasive species has notably affected Lake Ontario's ecosystem?

• A. Bluegill
• B. Asian carp
• C. Largemouth bass
• D. Yellow perch

Answer: (B)

The Asian carp is recognized as a particularly impactful invasive species influencing Lake Ontario's ecosystem. These fish were originally imported to control algae and pests in aquaculture ponds but quickly escaped into the wild, spreading through waterways. Their rapid reproduction and growth can lead to significant disruptions in the food web, as they compete with native fish for resources, particularly plankton, which are a vital food source for many native species. Their presence can threaten the biodiversity within Lake Ontario, as established populations of native fish struggle to compete. Additionally, the physical displacement of native species leads to a decline in fish populations that local anglers and commercial fisheries rely upon, posing both ecological and economic risks to the region. Addressing the threat posed by Asian carp is critical for maintaining the ecological balance and health of Lake Ontario's waters. The other species listed in the options, such as bluegill, largemouth bass, and yellow perch, are native to the region and have co-evolved with the local ecosystem. They do not pose the same level of ecological threat as Asian carp, making the latter the correct answer regarding the invasive species impacting Lake Ontario.

The Asian carp is recognized as a particularly impactful invasive species influencing Lake Ontario's ecosystem. These fish were originally imported to control algae and pests in aquaculture ponds but quickly escaped into the wild, spreading through waterways. Their rapid reproduction and growth can lead to significant disruptions in the food web, as they compete with native fish for resources, particularly plankton, which are a vital food source for many native species.

Their presence can threaten the biodiversity within Lake Ontario, as established populations of native fish struggle to compete. Additionally, the physical displacement of native species leads to a decline in fish populations that local anglers and commercial fisheries rely upon, posing both ecological and economic risks to the region. Addressing the threat posed by Asian carp is critical for maintaining the ecological balance and health of Lake Ontario's waters.

The other species listed in the options, such as bluegill, largemouth bass, and yellow perch, are native to the region and have co-evolved with the local ecosystem. They do not pose the same level of ecological threat as Asian carp, making the latter the correct answer regarding the invasive species impacting Lake Ontario.