New Exhibit Showcases Invasive Lamprey At Belle Isle Aqaurium
DETROIT (WWJ) -- A fish that walks on land and breathes air is just one of the invasive species on display in a new exhibit that opened Saturday at the Belle Isle Aquarium.
Wayne State Biologist Dr. Jeffrey Ram said that there shouldn't be too much of a concern. The 30-inch long Northern Snakehead Lamprey on display is only a model -- the real thing has come to Maryland, but hasn't invaded the Great Lakes just yet.
"It eats meat, it eats other fish," Ram said. "It can really damage the ecology. They are present now in Maryland, we hope they don't get into the Great Lakes."
The display also highlights other Great Lakes pests, the Sea Lamprey and Zebra Mussel. The latest invasive species, the Quagga Mussel, has already taken a large toll on the area, according to Dr. Ram.
"In fact, the entire bottom of Lake Michigan is covered with Quagga Mussels and it's changing the chemistry of Lake Michigan," Ram said.
Katie Meister, a volunteer educator, said that while the lamprey may be a big problem for us in the Great Lakes state, it is actually a delicacy overseas.
"Queen Elizabeth in England, her favorite dish is Lamprey Eel Pie," Meister said. "In England, lamprey eel are a protected species."
Meister urged that the lamprey, if it makes its way to the Great Lakes, will be a cause of major concern for the ecosystem in and around the waters.
"It does not come from here," Meister said. "The species itself did come from other places, they've attached themselves, though, to fish and they are killing our fish."