Ecosystem-scale evaluation of sound bubble barrier technologies to prevent range expansions of Asian carps

Bighead (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis) and silver (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) carps have invaded the Mississippi River Basin and have successfully established populations in the Illinois River. The invasion of Asian carps in the Illinois River has negatively influenced native fish populations and they now pose an imminent threat to invading Lake Michigan through the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal. Sound-bubble-strobe light barrier technologies may have the ability to slow or eliminate Asian carp range expansions. In 2005, sound-bubble barrier technologies were shown to be 95% effective at deterring adult bighead carp passage in hatchery raceways. To use this technology for Asian carps management, barrier effectiveness trials must be conducted at an ecosystem-scale. We tested the effectiveness of sound-bubble-strobe light barriers at repelling Asian carps and native fish passage in 2009, within Quiver Creek, a tributary to the Illinois River. To test barrier effectiveness, Asian carps and native fishes were removed from upstream of the barrier. All captured fishes were measured for length, weight, and received a floy-tag prior to being released downstream of the barrier. Barrier effectiveness was determined by upstream recaptures. Our preliminary results suggest 100% effectiveness at repelling silver carp passage and 97% effectiveness against passage by native fishes.