It’s summer — when the days are long, the breeze is cool, and the water is nice. Except in Lake Vermilion where experts are in a panic over an unwelcome visitor who threatens the entire ecosystem in the northeastern United States.
Recently, fisherman have been sending information to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) regarding their suspicions that the water is being populated by what are known as spiny water fleas. Now, the Minnesota DNR has confirmed that they in fact do have a spiny water flea infestation on their hands.
Who are these unwelcome guests?
As is the case with most unwelcome species, the spiny water flea has the potential to greatly harm the ecosystem where it has been found, and Minnesota is bracing for impact before going to war with these minuscule pests.
Spiny water fleas are miniature pests, but their aptitude for destruction makes them a formidable foe according to the Minnesota DNR, “Spiny waterflea is a small crustacean that disrupts the food web and competes with small fish as it forages on animal plankton such as daphnia. Because of its long tail spike, the spiny waterflea is not eaten by small fish.” the characteristics that make these little creatures such pests, also make them exceptionally hazardous to the environment.
What is being done to ensure the health of surrounding areas?
Unfortunately for areas surrounding the Vermilion lake system, the spiny water flea has a knack for spreading rapidly from one body of water to another according to the DNR, “Microscopic spiny waterflea eggs are hardy and capable of overwintering in lakes, and their small size makes them an easy candidate for overland transfer in water or mud.” Without proper precautions and immediate action to thwart the pests, they could spread farther, and infest additional potentially even larger bodies of water.
Can Spiny Water Flea be eradicated swiftly and effectively?
The DNR has taken immediate action and posted signs signaling to those that wish to be in and around the lake, that there is an infestation and precautions must be taken. DNR biologist Rich Rezanka explained some of what is being done to prevent the spread, “DNR staff are coordinating with the Bois Forte Band of Chippewa and U.S. Forest Service to alert boaters and other recreationists of the risk of spread.”
At this stage in the development of the infestation, prevention is key. Rather than immediately attempt to fully eradicate the flea, experts are taking the first step in issuing warnings to contain the situation.
