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Category: Invasive Species Awareness

Red Lionfish

Red Lionfish

Contact Edna Stetzar to report sightings: Edna.Stetzar@delaware.gov Lionfish Alert for Delaware! Please spread the word and report sightings of this voracious invasive that could be in our waters! The Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife is interested in documenting the occurrence of lionfish (Pterois volitans and P. miles) off the coast of Delaware. Lionfish are native to the western Pacific Ocean, but have become well established along the east coast of the U.S. from Florida to North Carolina. Warm eddies generated…

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Spotted Lanternfly Adult
Spotted Lanternfly – Update

Spotted Lanternfly – Update

Effective July 12, 2022, the Delaware Department of Agriculture will expand the spotted lanternfly quarantine zone to include Sussex County. Established populations have neem found n Georgetown, Milford, Seaford, Ocean View, and Rehoboth.

Fowl Ticks

Fowl Ticks

The fowl or poultry tick (Argas persicus) was newly detected in Delaware at a location in Kent County. This species, which is native to Asia but widely distributed around the world, is considered a major pest of poultry and linked to numerous avian health issues. This marks the first record of a soft tick (family Argasidae) in the state, with all other documented species being hard ticks (family Ixodidae). Poultry keepers are advised to monitor for tick infestations and report…

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Zebra Mussels found on moss balls sold as aquarium plants

Zebra Mussels found on moss balls sold as aquarium plants

March 4, 2021: Zebra Mussels have been found attached to and inside of Betta Buddy Marimo Balls (moss balls) that are being sold in aquarium and pet shops. They were first reported in the state of Washington, but these moss balls are distributed across the U.S. and are being found in other states. They have not been found in Delaware yet, but it is important to keep an eye out. If you find Zebra Mussels in moss balls, please document…

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NISAW 2020: Mute Swan

NISAW 2020: Mute Swan

Today is the conclusion of Part I of National Invasive Species Awareness Week 2020. DISC’s last Invasive Species of the Day is the Mute Swan, a charismatic bird that many people don’t realize is an invasive species. Check out the fact sheet below, and be sure to share to help increase awareness! Part II of NISAW is May 16-23 , 2020.