A so-called “Frankenfish,” known for its unusual ability to walk on land and survive without water for extended periods, was recently caught on Long Island, prompting concerns from local authorities about potential ecological damage.
A fisherman captured a northern snakehead at Lily Pond in Suffolk County last week. Officials are now developing a strategy to address the possibility that more of these resilient, sharp-toothed fish are still present in the area, as stated by the New York State Department of Environmental Protection.
“These fish can walk on land,” noted Heidi O’Riordan, the regional fisheries manager for the New York State DEC. “They lack natural predators and can significantly disrupt local fish populations. They have a tendency to consume anything that fits in their large mouths,” she added.
Northern snakeheads, which are originally from Asia and often sought after as a delicacy, were never before documented in the waters of Long Island, officials reported. O’Riordan indicated that the invasive species likely found its way to the region through accidental releases or intentional discards from fish markets and aquariums.
The state has mandated that any fisherman who catches a northern snakehead must kill it and report the find, due to the threat it poses to native wildlife. The DEC is actively working to contain the spread of this invasive fish, recognized by its python-like patterns and razor-sharp teeth.
As of this week, no snakeheads have been discovered in Lake Ronkonkoma, the largest freshwater lake on Long Island, despite searches being conducted by state officials.
To locate and eliminate these predators, the DEC is utilizing a method called “electrofishing.” This technique involves introducing an electric current into the water to momentarily stun fish, allowing fishermen to collect them without harm.
