Triploid grass carp. Image courtesy U.S. Fish & Wildlife ServiceStocking of Triploid Grass Carp is a viable option for control of certain submersed aquatic weeds. Grass carp are native to Asia and were introduced to the U.S. in the 1960s for weed control applications; “triploid” refers to grass carp bred with an extra set of chromosomes to ensure sterility. Fertile grass carp that migrate into streams and rivers can reproduce and potentially disturb native ecosystems. In Georgia, only sterile grass carp obtained from state-licensed dealers may be legally stocked for biological weed control. Triploid grass carp are most effective at controlling submersed aquatic plants; strictly herbivorous, they do not disturb sport fisheries when stocked at the recommended rate of 10 to 25 fish per acre (re-stocking is necessary every four to six years due to the natural useful life cycle of the fish). While not a cure-all, triploid grass carp can be a cost-effective long-term component of an overall management program, and are best used with herbicide treatments in an integrated approach to aquatic plant management. Because triploid grass carp show a feeding preference for some plants over others, it’s best to get a professional assessment of your pond conditions and needs before stocking.
Aquascape Environmental is licensed by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources as a triploid grass carp dealer.
