Goldfish Dumped In Rivers Are Growing Up To Ten Times Their Normal Size
Pet goldfish dumped in rivers by owners are hurting the local ecosystem after growing up to 10 times their normal size, according to Mirror. Koi carp and big goldfish are being caught in Western Australia’s waterways, among other introduced species. Koi carp are growing up to 8kg and goldfish are growing from the normal 100g to 2kg. According to an expert, the aquarium fish and other species are driving native species of fish to extinction.
Dr. David Morgan of Murdoch’s Center For Fish and Fisheries Research said that most of these fish are bigger than the local fish and they feast on them and compete for habitat and food. In addition to preying on native fish and grabbing their homes, these mutant goldfish are bringing diseases and parasites with them. Morgan said that pet owners should be educated into the consequences of releasing their pet aquarium fish into streams and rivers.
