The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is warning about two species of invasive carp that pose a threat to the state’s native freshwater fish and habitats.

Signs are being installed at public boat ramps along the Tennessee River in north Alabama to help boaters and anglers identify the fish –  bighead and silver carp – if they are seen or harvested from the river.

“Due to the threat posed by invasive carp we are working to protect the state’s aquatic resources from these invaders,” said Chris Greene, Chief of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries’s Section said in a statement. “Currently, the areas of concern for silver carp in Alabama are the Tennessee and Tombigbee rivers. When established, these fish not only negatively impact native fishes they can also harm boaters by jumping out of the water when startled by the vibrations and noises produced by boat motors. A jumping carp strike can cause serious injury to anyone on board a vessel.”

WFF said invasive carp outcompetes other native species for food and habitats, including the state’s important game fish. As their range expands, the potential to wreak havoc on lakes, river and local economies in Alabama increases, WFF warns, with the primary concern on freshwater fisheries.

There are four species of invasive carp that have been introduced in the U.S – bighead, silver, grass and black carp, with the first three known to exist in Alabama waters. Black carp have not been documented in the state.

Boaters and anglers are encouraged to report sightings or harvest of bighead and silver carp to WFF’s Fisheries Section by phone at 256-353-2634 or by email at [email protected]. When reporting a sighting or harvest, provide the following information: the location (GPS coordinates, if possible), the date and clear photos of the fish. If reporting the harvest of an invasive carp, it is important that you do not release it back into the water.