A highly invasive fish with extraordinary survival capabilities out of water was recently discovered in southeastern Missouri, raising concerns about its potential spread and impact on the environment.
Known as the northern snakehead or “Frankenfish,” this species was last seen in Missouri four years ago. Its recent capture in the Duck Creek Conservation Area has wildlife officials sounding the alarm, although many anglers remain unaware of the fish and its implications.
According to U.S. officials, if anyone catches a northern snakehead, they should photograph it and neutralize it by freezing it or placing it on ice for an extended period.
The northern snakehead is originally from East Asia, where it is considered a delicacy with supposed healing properties. This species reproduces rapidly, possesses sharp teeth, can traverse muddy land, and can grow up to three feet in length.
In 2002, the federal government implemented a ban on importing and transporting live northern snakeheads across state lines. However, the species has managed to thrive in certain areas of the U.S.
“They are knocking on the door in Arkansas,” warned Dave Knuth, a Missouri fisheries management biologist. “They are a formidable presence.”
The recent catch in Missouri is particularly concerning. “I didn’t anticipate them spreading this far north within the state,” said Knuth.
The first recorded capture of a northern snakehead in Missouri occurred in 2019 within the St. Francois River levee system in the Missouri Bootheel region.
In May, state workers netting bait for a youth fishing event discovered a 13-inch northern snakehead in Duck Creek Conservation Area. This location is part of the same watershed as the first capture, albeit approximately 70 river miles north.
Wildlife officials conducted a two-day search for other northern snakeheads in the conservation area and the neighboring Mingo National Wildlife Refuge. Although no additional individuals were found, there is a fear that a small population may be present.
Larry Underwood, a resident near the conservation area, expressed support for the state’s efforts to combat the northern snakehead invasion. However, he acknowledged the challenges, comparing it to the ongoing struggle with controlling feral hogs in the region.
Apart from Missouri, northern snakeheads have been spotted in Pennsylvania and Georgia, with officials issuing warnings to fishermen to immediately eliminate any caught specimens.
In 2015, a team of scientists from the U.S. Geological Survey discovered that adult northern snakeheads collected from Virginia waters were infected with a species of Mycobacterium, a bacterium known to cause chronic diseases in various animals.
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