Japan has a long history of productive freshwater fisheries that have been sustained by ample native fish stocks. However, many non-native fish species have been introduced, mainly for food supply and recreational opportunities, and are causing issues related to the decline of native species. These invasive fish species range from Largemouth and Smallmouth bass, Bluegill, Carp, salmonids such as Brown trout, Rainbow trout, Lake charr and Brook charr, as well as a host of cyprinids. The impacts of these species also vary based on habitat and species assemblage, but the direct predation of native species, for example Smallmouth bass predation of native stream fishes such as Ayu and Japanese Dace, tend to be highlighted. This symposium brings together a wide range of fisheries biologists and professionals to explore the recent trends in the distribution and effects of these invasive freshwater fish. Our speakers range from seasoned veteran government fisheries managers and professors to young researchers. We will attempt to not only explore the prevalent management techniques currently used in Japan, mainly targeted removal of invasive fish, but will also focus on emerging methods and strategies to enhance native species survival even when a complete removal of the invasive species is not possible. We will also focus on lesser-known invasive fish issues, such as domestic non-native introductions of popular game-species such as Masu salmon and White-spotted charr. A special focus will be placed not only on the research and management aspects of these issues, but also on the community education and involvement that is crucial for their long-term success. This symposium will predominantly focus on the management of invasive freshwater fish in Japan but will also reference historical and emerging practices in other areas, especially North America, and Europe which have a long history of invasive fish management. We hope that through examining past successes and failures in invasive fish management; while exploring emerging methods currently being used globally, we can provide insights into how to best tackle these issues going forward.


* This symposium will be conducted predominantly in Japanese
*本シンポジウムは主に日本語で開催されます