First imported into the United States in the 1960s and 1970s for use in southern aquaculture facilities and retention ponds, species like bighead
and silver carp (commonly known as Asian Carp) escaped during flooding
and have wrecked the fisheries of the Mississippi River watershed where
they have taken over. As filter feeders, they consume the base of the
aquatic food chain, starving out and outcompeting native fish species.
Additionally, silver carp become a safety hazard to boaters and anglers on
waters they inhabit, leaping feet out of the air and weighing up to 40
pounds. Explain the impact an invasive species on the biodiversity of an
ecosystem.